Cause
Why do food deserts exist?
People live too far away from grocery store and can't afford to purchase fresh foods.
How can gardening in communities be used to decrease food deserts?
It can be a great source of healthy food. Opportunity to learn how to plant and develop farming skills. It can also build a community and keep resources local.
What health problems can occur from the lack of fresh food?
Obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
What kind of foods do food deserts not have?
Healthy and clean food
What type of food is most common in food desert?
The most common types of food are processed foods, fast food, and convenience items
Does food cost more in food deserts?
Yes, The average food prices in the food deserts were 36% higher than in non-food deserts
How can the government play a part in building supermarkets in more areas?
The government can play a role by incentivizing grocery store development in areas where it is lacking. They also can encourage the opening of local small businesses, like healthy food stores.
Who is most impacted by food deserts?
Those who live in rural and lower socioeconomic areas
How can you start helping your community, once you recognize you live in a food desert?
Grow own food, work with local retailers to sell healthy/ vegan foods. Advocate and educate
Name 2 ommon places to buy food in a food desert?
Fast food restaurants (McDonalds, Burger King, etc.) and convenience stores
In what communities do food deserts exsists?
predominately low income, urban or rural communities
How can public transportation be used to reduce food deserts?
By creating pop-up style farmers markets in underserved areas for people to stop and pick up fresh groceries on their commute home.
How can the lack of education be a risk factor to vulnerable populations?
These communities aren't aware that they are a vulnerable population. They don't know about better conditions. They don't have proper nutrition education
Why are food deserts bad?
Because they have negative impacts on overall health.
What is a community garden?
A shared piece of land where people from a local area come together to cultivate plants, vegetables, flowers, or even raise animals
Food deserts exists due to?
Residents living too far away from grocery stores. Can't afford to purchase fresh/ healthy foods.
How can business and marketing plans eliminate possible food deserts?
By building grocery stores and local markets that supply fresh produce to the community.
What problems can result from the lack of fresh food?
Convenience stores can go out of business because they aren't selling fresh foods. people end up spending more money and gaining weight from fast food
Why should you care about food deserts?
The high rates of obesity in low income societies. The impact they have on communities health status
Name 3 environmental factors that impact health besides access to healthy food?
Air/water quality, access to safe housing, transportation, exposure to toxins, green spaces
Why are supermarkets not often building in food deserts?
There are higher costs for developing supermarkets in underserved communities.
How can expanding federal programs help families in food deserts?
It would put more money in families pockets to help them afford healthier food options
Food insecurity and poor nutrition can negatively affect children's cognitive development and academic performance.
Approximately how many Americans live in food deserts?
Approximately 25-30 million
What role can individuals, communities, and policymakers play in addressing food deserts?
Think about how to support local initiatives, advocate for policy changes, or educate others about the issue.