The recent limitation on new stand-alone fast food restaurants in South Los Angeles has received mixed reactions from residents. Some say fast food is the not the problem, and banning new restaurants is not the solution.     

More than 70 percent of establishments in South Los Angeles are fast food restaurants. The prevalence of cheap but unhealthy food options combined with high rates of obesity and diabetes in South L.A. prompted city officials to create a permanent ban.

The ordinance bans new stand-alone fast food restaurants from building within a half-mile radius from existing fast food places, and along with meeting design guidelines, the restaurant must go through several hearings to persuade the city to allow the new establishment.

In the meantime, fresh-food options are emerging in parts of South Los Angeles; however, the amount of grocery stores, sit-down restaurants and fresh-food options are still disproportionately low compared to other areas of Los Angeles.    

Reach reporter Raquel Estupinan here.