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Abstract
The persistent problem of food insecurity has been a major global concern. Understanding the relationship between the food environment and how it affects food security is crucial for improving the overall health and well-being of the population. This study utilized secondary cross-sectional data from the 2016 Local Level Food Health and Nutrition Survey (LFHNS) conducted by the Department of Science and Technology- Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) in the Municipality of Pulilan, Bulacan. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between the density of food stores, perceived nutrition environment, and food security status. The study’s results showed no association between the density of food stores, perceived nutrition environment, and food security; however, a positive association was found with the number of food stores. Findings showed that for every unit increase in the number of food stores, an increase of 1.9 food-secure households (p=<0.05, 95% C.I. 1.3-2.7) was noted. The “sari-sari store” was the most common type of food store and the most accessible among the poor and poorest households. Further studies should include other food environment factors affecting food security, such as typology, proximity, and other food retail outlets available in the community, including traditional restaurants or carinderia and fast-food chains.