The methodology starts with the mapping of food retailers in the state by weight. Weights are assigned to food retailers based on the ability to procure healthy food across a full diet. Food retailer data used to assign weights is based on information from National American Inventory Classification Systems (NAICS) codes. Next, models for walking and driving are calculated using MassDOT Roads data. Numerous distances are considered in order to take into account the differences of rural, suburban, and urban food access. Finally, a mean food access index score is calculated for each census block group at each network distance. At this point, it is possible to conduct statistical summaries and analyses based on demographic and socioeconomic characteristics.

Mean Food Access Index socres were updated by block groups based on multiple network distances:

Drivability:

• 1 mile (1600m) drivesheds

• 5 mile (8000m) drivesheds