THE STRUGGLE FOR FOOD

A new Pew Research Report has some alarming numbers when it comes to the affordability of food for Americans.

A new Pew Research Report has some alarming numbers when it comes to the affordability of food for Americans. According to the data, almost a quarter of Americans have trouble affording food. To quote the report; “This reported level of deprivation is closer to that in Indonesia or Greece rather than Britain or Canada.” How can this be the case? Well we’ve reported many times on the rising cost of food – this was about 5% last year. And we’ve spoken a lot about how last years drought led to an increase in corn, wheat, and soybean prices, which in turned raised the price of chicken, pork, and beef. So, this new research from Pew is a direct outcome. The USDA reports that to healthfully feed a family of four, including meals and snacks, cost about $191 per week. This is up 38% from 10 years ago. With continued unpredictability in weather affecting crops and higher demand from a growing population, unfortunately, it seems more likely that food prices are only going to continue to rise. The US is also has huge income inequality, we may be one of the wealthiest countries but according to the Wall Street Journal, 15% of the population uses food stamps. So if you are in a position to help, don’t forget, your local food bank is always in need of donations.