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Understanding Food Deserts and the Importance of Addressing Food and Nutrition Insecurity

Understanding Food Deserts and the Importance of Addressing Food and Nutrition Insecurity

Food deserts may be closer than you think. Learn more about how this affects individuals every day.

Food deserts are defined as areas where access to affordable, nutritious food is limited or nonexistent, particularly for residents without reliable transportation. These areas are often urban neighborhoods or rural towns lacking supermarkets, grocery stores, or other sources of fresh, healthy food. Instead, convenience stores and fast-food restaurants dominate, offering processed and calorie-dense options with little nutritional value.  

Obtaining fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods is a significant challenge for those living in food deserts. This lack of access often leads to poor dietary choices, increasing the risk of chronic illnesses such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. 

Without proper nutrition, children struggle to focus in school, adults find it harder to perform at work, and families face mounting healthcare costs, creating cycles of poverty and health disparity.  

The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank plays a vital role in addressing food and nutrition insecurity in LA County. By distributing fresh produce and nutritious food through hundreds of partner agencies throughout the County, and direct distributions, the Food Bank helps ensure that those living in food deserts receive the nutritious food they need. Additionally, programs like nutrition education empower individuals with the knowledge to make healthier choices when food options are available.  

Health In a Box

97% of the food distributed by the Food Bank is considered nutritious. Food recipients can typically expect fresh fruits and vegetables gleaned, sorted and packed at one of the Food Bank’s warehouses, as well as shelf-stable items like rice, legumes, and canned goods. Also included at some distributions are dairy products, eggs, and a pack of protein that may include chicken, beef, pork or shrimp. 

To support our mission, consider donating or volunteering with the Food Bank today. Together, We Feed LA.

More Stories from the LA Regional Food Bank

LA Strong: Sports Teams Come Together with the Food Bank and Other Organizations to Assist Displaced Families

With fires, power outages and water advisories striking the region, the Food Bank joins a community resource fair to help neighbors.

The Most Effective Ways You Can Help Bolster the Food Bank’s Response to the Wildfires and Local Emergencies

The LA Regional Food Bank is working with government agencies, nonprofit and faith-based partners and others to respond to the fires.

California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, CA Health & Human Services Secretary Kim Johnson and CA Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday Visit LA Regional Food Bank Amidst Wildfires

The First Partner, Secretary and Chief Service Officer visited the Food Bank as state-funded food was delivered to support those affected.

The LA Regional Food Bank Provides Food Assistance to Neighbors Impacted by Local Emergencies in Collaboration with Hilda Solis and Community Partners

With fires, power outages and water advisories striking the region, the Food Bank joins a community resource fair to help neighbors.

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