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There is a difference in pricing structure. Junk and unhealthy food in the US is much cheaper and more available than basic ingredients which you could use to m

There is a difference in pricing structure. Junk and unhealthy food in the US is much cheaper and more available than basic ingredients which you could use to make wholesome meals. Also much easier to store. We had a similar problem in Poland in 60s, people in some areas ate a lot of bleached flour (and potato flour) in various forms, inviting health disasters and obesity. But that was due to lack of availability of other things mostly. Pricing structure influences availability for poor. The "feel good" addictive factor is a real kicker. Some foods should come in black coffin boxes with a warning label on top.

briancleland 7y ago
That's interesting. How was the pricing structure problem addressed?
- AstralStorm 7y ago
  Initially, the availability issues were fixed by rationing (dreaded food coupons), then by improving production and transport, and finally the Berlin Wall fell, after a short hyperinflation almost everybody can afford basic food and most kinds of produce (except meat) are cheap. The problem is somewhat flipped now that affluent people overeat or eat fast food due to time pressure. These are more expensive than produce and basic components (excluding most kinds of meat, still) even including preparation and work required. Fewer people cook at home, though healthier take out options are quite available in many places. Small restaurants, kinda like old American "greasy spoon" but healthier and more often with disposable cheap packaging and cutlery - big catering is barely competitive. Replacing in many instances previous "milk bars" with both cheap and more gentrified options depending on area. I think the main difference is how near these are to living and work spaces.