Addressing US Food Deserts: Evaluating Current Solutions and Proposing Other Comprehensive Alternatives

Abstract

Food deserts, characterized by limited access to affordable and nutritious food options due to the absence of nearby grocery stores, affect the lives of approximately 19 million individuals across the United States. This study critically evaluates the efficacy of current solutions and proposes a comprehensive approach that addresses the spatial challenges inherent in food deserts. Through an extensive literature review and insightful interviews with academic experts and a local food bank, this research examines the limitations of existing initiatives such as SNAP, SNAP-Ed, HFFI, and urban agriculture in effectively tackling food deserts. Notably, most of these programs tackle financial support but do not tackle the widespread and systemic accessibility of supermarkets that is a key characteristic of food deserts. While these programs have shown some positive impact in mitigating food insecurity, they fail to directly address the fundamental issue of distance between individuals and food resources. In response to these limitations, this study proposes a comprehensive solution that centers on enhancing public transit systems and establishing robust online delivery platforms. By improving transportation options, such as implementing shuttle buses, individuals residing in food deserts can more easily access supermarkets and grocery stores, thereby overcoming the distance challenge. Additionally, online delivery services can bridge the gap by providing convenient access to nutritious food, regardless of geographic location. To ensure the effectiveness of these solutions, government subsidies should be considered to alleviate delivery fees and reduce costs.