Large-scale re-development, including the growth of large supermarkets on the periphery of these established communities, has led to the closure of many smaller shops leaving this area of Manchester with an inadequate number of food outlets making it difficult for the residents to access a healthy diet, particularly with regard to fresh fruit and vegetables.
The areas Herbie serves are predominately low-income areas with a mortality rate of almost double the national average, with high incidences of death from cancers, circulatory and respiratory diseases. Poor diet, in particular a lack of fruit and vegetables, is known to be a factor in all of these ailments. Those living on a low income often view healthy foods, in particular fresh fruit and vegetables, as expensive. For those on a low income, food expenditure is often the most flexible part of the budget, and one of the first things to be cut. Because high fat and sugary foods tend to be more filling, providing more "calories per penny", they are often relied on as staples, which can lead to health problems including coronary heart disease, some forms of cancer, and obesity. Herbie addresses the above problems by providing local people with an affordable alternative that is fresh, nutritious and healthy.
Our four main aims are:
Financial: To be a dynamic, not-for-profit service, where customers can purchase high quality produce that is up to 20% cheaper than local supermarkets.
Health: To improve the overall accessibility of fresh produce and increase consumption of fruit and vegetables through low prices, education, awareness and promotions.
Sustainable: To be committed to environmentally sustainable practises which minimise the impact on the environment.
Inspirational: To establish Herbie as an inspirational model for other communities living in similar areas, with similar problems, to replicate and follow.
