What's on the Menu?
Over one-third of America's youth are overweight or obese. The main energy sources for 2 to 18 year olds include cake, donuts, cookies, and soda which leads to insulin sensitivities and can result in diabetes amongst other diseases. Fast food chains targeting low income communities and school districts have caused a crisis of overfed, undernourished children in America. These statistics beg the questions, "how did we get here?" Walking to and from school has been replaced by a car or bus ride. Playing outside at recess has been replaced by video games. Portion sizes have exploded, and home-cooked meals have been replaced by a quick stop at a local fast food restaurant.
That is the bad news. The good news is that we are living in the midst of a food revolution. Researchers are building a food system of the future, one that is more equitable and efficient than today's. A global food system that empowers families to make informed food decisions while strengthening their local economies. Programs, initiatives, and campaigns are working tirelessly to change the current system on local and international levels. Everyone has a role to play in reducing childhood obesity and restructuring our global food system, including parents, government officials, private corporations, and health care professionals.
Over the next six weeks, we will highlight different Food Justice topics, ranging from ugly produce to food marketing. We hope to raise awareness and spark a discussion. Keep up with The Weekly Catch to see what's on the menu each week.