Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is defined as being without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food. Many low-income communities and communities of color do not have access to adequate, nutrient-rich foods on a consistent basis. The United States Department of Agriculture explains that areas where a substantial share of residents live, but do not have adequate access to grocery stores and affordable healthy food, is defined as a grocery gap - also known as a food desert. People who live in these areas often have to rely on food from convenience stores, with limited (and more expensive) fruits and vegetables. Without access to fresh, whole foods, children tend to develop obesity-related problems, which then puts them at higher risk for adult obesity and related chronic conditions such as heart disease and high cholesterol later in life.