This article reviews literature examining the impact food systems have on creating and exacerbating health disparities in the United States. It highlights directions for future research and policies to address the health disparities created by food systems.
Published: July 2009
ID #: 1027
Journal: J Hunger Environ Nutr
Authors: Neff RA, Palmer AM, McKenzie SE, Lawrence RS
Keywords: Commodity foods, Community setting, Competitive foods, Farmers' markets, Food advertising, Food outlet, Food systems, Healthy food financing, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Taxes, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Focus Areas: Food Access, Food Marketing, Nutrition Policy & Programs, Pricing & Economics, School & After School
Resource Type: Journal Article
Related Research
May 2026
Ultraprocessed Foods in the U.S.: Recommended Definitions and Policies
Despite growing interest in ultraprocessed foods (UPFs), there is not consensus on how to define UPFs for policy purposes. To meet this need, Healthy Eating Research convened an expert panel to develop evidence-informed recommendations for policymakers and advocates interested in advancing policies to limit UPF exposure and consumption at the local, state, and federal levels. MoreMay 2026
Beyond Added Sugar Reduction: A Narrative Review of Policies to Address Nonsugar Sweeteners
This perspective provides policymakers, advocates and researchers with a description of proposed and enacted policies that assist consumers in identifying products with nonsugar sweeteners (NSS) and/or reduce NSS exposure. Consumption of NSS is associated with multiple chronic diseases. NSS exposure is increasing as food and beverage manufacturers replace added sugars with NSS. This narrative review MoreApril 2026