279 The Blacker the Berry: A study of anti-neuroinflammatory food preferences and acceptability among Black American pregnant and postpartum people living in food apartheid

Abstract

Objectives/Goals: This study aimed to identify preferences for nutrient-dense foods with critical nutrients associated with reduced neuroinflammation and perinatal depression risk. Aim two evaluated the acceptability of daily intake and preparation methods of select foods in Black American pregnant and postpartum people living in food apartheid in St. Louis. Methods/Study Population: The study included a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design with data collection at the YWCA of Metro St. Louis during Early Head Start programming with 21 participants living in geographies with low grocery-to-convenience store ratios. We conducted an open-ended online survey to determine participants’ preferences for specific foods with high nutrient density. Food preferences were subjected to nutrient analyses using FoodData Central, and foods with the highest concentrations of critical nutrients associated with reduced neuroinflammation and perinatal depression risk were identified. We presented results during a focus group with participants who completed the survey and evaluated the acceptability of daily intake and preparation methods. Results/Anticipated Results: Preferred food choices with the highest concentrations of critical nutrients associated with reduced neuroinflammation and perinatal depression risk included dark red kidney beans, black beans, pinto beans, black-eyed peas, peanuts, almonds, pistachios, walnuts, pecans, carrots, spinach, red bell pepper, sweet potatoes, and salmon. Participant justifications for low acceptance of daily intake included allergic reactions, “dry” or “slimy” texture, undesirable taste or appearance, absence of cravings, preferring alternatives, complicated preparation methods, and financial tradeoffs. Participant justifications for high acceptance included desirable taste and texture, diverse modification and preparation options, and nutrient composition critical for anemia treatment. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The study identified nutrient-dense food preferences within a sample vulnerable to nutrient-poor alternatives and health consequences. Participant acceptance of nutrient-dense intake was contingent upon recipes fulfilling cravings, acceptance among persons preparing meals, and diverse options to prevent boredom with preparation methods.