Final answer:
A survey is the most effective and efficient tool for assessing the consumption of locally grown foods in a community, because it can reach a wide population and gather diverse data points.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most effective and efficient tool for gathering information on the consumption of locally grown foods by community residents from the options provided would be a survey. Surveys allow researchers to collect data from a large enough sample to generalize findings across a community. They enable the compilation of a vast array of data points regarding personal consumption habits, preferences, and motivations behind choosing locally grown foods. Focus groups can provide in-depth insights but are not as efficient for assessing a larger population. Health risk appraisals and screening tools are more focused on individual health assessments and would not be as effective in gathering broad community consumption data.