Abstract

This study examines food inequalities within Santiago’s urban planning framework, employing a Multiscale Geographically Weighted Regression (MGWR) to empirically explore the presence of food deserts. The analysis identifies areas lacking in nutritious food access, influenced significantly by demographics and socioeconomic factors. The research methodology, based on spatial epidemiology, maps urban centralities to demarcate areas within a 15-min walk to healthy food sources. Variables such as gender of household head, age, income, and education levels are statistically correlated with the distribution of food deserts. The findings inform targeted interventions and underscore the need for inclusive urban planning and intersectoral efforts to improve food access and public health. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.