Delivering multidisciplinary public health in action – the Cardiff Food Strategy case study

AbstractBackgroundThere is an increasing awareness that the provision of healthy food relies on the co-ordinated efforts of a number of diverse disciplines, not merely those traditionally linked with food. This paper documents the development of a food and health strategy, commissioned by the health alliance for the city of Cardiff, and focuses on the areas of sustainability, education and training as well as nutrition, food provision and food safety.ObjectiveThe aim of the strategy was to increase the uptake of a healthy, safe and sustainable diet for all those living in Cardiff.MethodThe methodology included a rapid appraisal of food initiatives operating within the city, establishing a food and health strategy working group and the production of strategy documentation. Multi-agency collaboration and consultation were key components of the approach.ResultsAs the strategy developed, seven action areas became apparent, including education and training, public sector procurement and rewarding excellence. These action areas were incorporated into seven ‘action tables’, which constitute the core of the strategy. The food and health strategy document was ratified by the Local Health Al