Photo Credit Jason Shan and Susanna Tang “Food deserts are classified as regions with little access to fresh produce, and they affect millions of Americans.”

When we talk about healthy food and sustainability, it is easy to say “eat better” or “support local,” but it’s not that simple. Policies play a big role in what farmers can grow and what communities can actually access.

On one hand, the USDA is investing in programs that help farmers connect to local markets. That’s important because it supports local farmers and amkes fresh food more available to communities that need it (U.S. Department of Agriculture).

But at the same time, there are funding proposals that could increase costs for farmers and cut programs that support local food systems. That makes it harder for smaller farmers to compete and can lead to higher food prices overall (“Republicans Advance Agriculture0FDA Funding Bill”)

At the end of the day, if we want better access to healthy food, especially in undeserved areas, we need policies that consistently support farmers and local food systems. Wiothout that, telling people to “eat better” doesn’t really mean much.

Republicans Advance Agriculture-FDA Funding Bill That Would Raise Costs for Farmers, Cut Programs.” House Appropriations Committee, https://democrats-appropriations.house.gov/news/press-releases/republicans-advance-agriculture-fda-funding-bill-would-raise-costs-farmers-cut

“USDA Announces New Funding to Connect Farmers to Local Markets.” U.S. Department of Agriculture, 2026, https://www.thefencepost.com/news/usda-announces-new-funding-to-connect-farmers-to-local-markets/