🌵Food Deserts in Black and Poor Communities

Food deserts—areas where residents struggle to find affordable, healthy food—are prevalent in poor urban neighborhoods across the United States. While the link between poverty and food availability has been well-documented, new research reveals that race also plays a significant role. When comparing communities with similar poverty rates, it becomes evident that black and Hispanic neighborhoods have fewer large supermarkets and more small grocery stores than their white counterparts ¹. These smaller establishments often lack the healthy whole-grain foods, dairy products, and fresh fruits and vegetables that larger supermarkets provide.

In predominantly low-income minority communities, incongruencies with supermarket locations are more pronounced, especially when compared to predominantly white neighborhoods ². The racial composition of a neighborhood matters beyond poverty levels. For instance, young African-American women living in unsafe neighborhoods with limited access to parks, gyms, or supermarkets face challenges in making healthy choices. Even if they want to prioritize their health, their circumstances make it difficult ¹.

Impact of Grocery and Dollar-Type Store Closures

The closure of grocery stores and the proliferation of dollar-type stores exacerbate the situation. Dollar stores, while convenient, primarily stock inexpensive, shelf-stable products lacking nutritional value. When dollar stores replace grocery stores, communities lose access to essential food items. This phenomenon is known as a “food swamp,” where unhealthy options dominate³. Here are some key points:

Disproportionate Impact: Between 2000 and 2019, dollar stores opening in a neighborhood led to a 5.7% drop in independent grocery store sales, a 3.7% decrease in employment, and a 2.3% increase in the likelihood of grocery store closures. The impact is three times more likely in rural areas than in urban ones ⁴.
Poor White Communities: It’s essential to recognize that poor white communities also face food deserts and the consequences of store closures. These areas experience similar challenges in accessing quality food, especially when dollar-type stores replace traditional grocery stores.