The importance of the informal food economy to food access and security: An examination of the Western Isles of Scotland

In many countries the informal food economy (IFE) plays an essential role in ensuring food access and security. In addition, IFEs can improve choice, have a positive impact upon diet as well as generate household income and employment. While studies have primarily focused upon the role of IFEs in developing economies, their importance within more developed rural markets warrants further attention. This paper draws upon key learnings from the existing literature and examines how IFEs operate within a developed, rural economy. Framed within a social economy framework, it examines the role and function of IFEs across the Western Isles of Scotland. Despite being part of an advanced market economy, food access and security in this region has previously been identified as problematic for particular consumer groups and communities. The research identifies that due to the continued expansion of the formal retail sector and the growth of on-line delivery, food access has become less of an issue for many island residents. This is not to suggest that IFEs are inconsequential. Apart from their role in strengthening social and community linkages, for certain segments of the island population they continue to play a key role in providing food access. The research also identified an increasing reliance upon a small number of national retail chains. This suggests, that in future, food security in remote and rural communities could become increasingly vulnerable to market externalities. • For the majority of Scottish island residents, the Informal Food Economy plays a limited role in food access. • The IFE has an important role in strengthening social and community linkages. • On-line grocery provision has improved food access in remote communities. • Consumers are increasingly reliant upon large multiple retailers for food access. • In future, food security may become vulnerable to market externalities.