Growing Groceries in Food Deserts

The growing obesity and nutrition crisis in the United States threatens the long-term health of many Americans. The food people eat, however, is not always the result of personal choice. Communities across the nation lack easy access to stores that stock affordable, nutritious food. These areas, often termed “food deserts,” are especially common in struggling urban neighborhoods and isolated rural communities. Consumption of fruits and vegetables generally is lower in food deserts because fresh produce often is not available or may be too expensive. Research shows that, when lower-income families have access to full-service grocery stores, they are likely to purchase more fruits and vegetables and have better health.

Access to healthy food is affected by both price and availability. Grocery stores act as community hubs and important economic anchors for other commercial and residential development. When there are no local grocery stores, a host of negative public and economic health effects can occur.