Understanding the role of, and barriers and motivators for, takeaways in higher and lower socioeconomic positioned families in England: a qualitative study Authorship

Background Rates of obesity are rising globally, with socioeconomic inequalities driving this disproportionately in lower income communities. The COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing cost-of-living crisis have further exacerbated unhealthy eating patterns, including a rise in the ‘out of home’ sector. Understanding food dynamics in families is crucial for informing equitable obesity prevention policies. This study explores the role of, and barriers and motivators for, takeaways for families in England, and whether this differed by socioeconomic position (SEP). Methods Inductive thematic analysis was conducted with a constructive ontology lens. Participants were 20 higher and lower SEP parents/carers of school or nursery aged children across Bradford, Brent, and Folkestone & Hythe. Results Both higher and lower SEP participants saw takeaways as a treat or emotional support, a break from cooking, and a tradition. Lower SEP participants described these takeaway traditions as having begun when COVID-19 restrictions were introduced and expressed intentions to continue them. Higher SEP families used takeaways to try new cuisines and as a social event with the family. Price was a barrier for both higher and lower SEP participants, but only lower SEP families saw promotional offers as a motivator. Negative service experiences were a barrier for higher SEP participants. Both higher and lower SEP participants shared other family members buying takeaways as a motivator. Conclusions This research suggests takeaways play a significant role in many families’ lives by producing structure, facilitating social events, and providing emotional support. These results contribute context and understanding of families’ food environments. As lower SEP families described being motivated by promotional offers, policy options to restrict the promotion of less healthy options should be explored.