Scoping supermarket availability and accessibility by socio-economic status in Adelaide.

METHODS We use a geographic information system to measure availability and accessibility of supermarkets in four case study local government areas (LGAs). The location of supermarkets is analysed in relation to residential dwellings, car ownership and in terms of travel distance along the road network. RESULTS This methodology identifies differences in both availability and accessibility between and within LGAs. It shows that a local-level approach to the issue of food deserts is warranted and suggests that generalisations based on large geographic areas are unlikely to be meaningful. CONCLUSIONS A significant number of households live in 'food deserts' in Adelaide and these can only be identified using a local-level approach.