Adi Talwar
Food is more than breakfast, lunch and dinner—especially in New York City. From food stamps to farmers’ markets, salt warnings to sous chefs, food is a social-justice issue, a public-health concern and an industry with growing impact. This series will explore food issues in the five boroughs—and provide ways for readers to get a seat at the table. Supported by the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund.
‘Narratives about those receiving public benefits depict them as scammers living large off the hard work of tax-paying Americans. This is far from the truth.’ Watch a video op-ed.
Scientists used to think ‘food deserts’ were linked to severe health risks, like obesity. But it turned out the existence of food swamps more accurately predicts obesity rates.
Researchers created a filterable database of nutrition education programs that are active in the city.
Hoping to counter fanciful marketing, debunk nutrition myths and encourage the consumption of healthy foods, nonprofits have teamed up with vendors to channel the desire for better health in New York’s low-income communities.
Though breastfeeding rates are up statewide, only a tiny proportion of new mothers breastfeed without using formula in many of New York City’s low-income communities. WIC is trying to change that.
Every year about 1,200 New York City youth age out of foster care. Among many challenges they face is developing good eating habits and finding and affording the nutritious food needed to practice them.
City-backed projects and grassroots gardens are collaborating on the city’s Zero Waste composting goal.
A former dairy worker is leading the push to close a loophole in labor laws. Agriculture businesses claim farmworkers are trying an end run through the courts after repeatedly failing to make their case in the state legislature.
Advocates hope access to healthy food, expanding school breakfast and ways to address hunger and the forces that drive it are issues that candidates for city office will be forced to discuss between now and Election Day.
If Congressional Republicans slash food support, it will hurt—but there are steps the city can take to boost access to nutrition.
TOOLS FOR YOUR TABLE
Photos: NaJina McEnany, Çalak, Jim, Stefan Kühn, Lance Cpl. Sean Cummins, Heikenwaelder Hugo
