Historically planning has played a major role in the development of unequal and isolated neighborhoods that deprive underserved populations of access to basic necessities such as healthy and affordable foods. A part of accessing healthy and affordable food is access to culturally appropriate foods (CAF). This study defines CAFs and highlights the perceived barriers to accessing CAFs, as expressed by study participants across the city of Detroit, MI. Through semi-structured interviews, residents' responses are coded to develop a concise understanding of their perception of CAF and access. Participants defined CAF as foods that people are inclined to traditionally and barriers to this food include transportation, proximity, and for those seeking to shift their diets but continue to consume traditional foods, education on healthy alternatives. Most participants have access to CAF, but they typically must shop outside of the city to access quality and affordable foods. Planners must now be key players in bringing about a just food system to benefit residents, especially to already disadvantaged low-income communities of color like those within Detroit.
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