As I sit down to write this piece, I am reminded of the stark reality that faces millions of people around the world. The simple act of eating, a fundamental human need, has become a privilege reserved for those who can afford it. The cost of eating is not just a matter of personal finance; it is a reflection of our society’s values and priorities.

The numbers are staggering. In the United States alone, over 37 million people live in households that struggle to put food on the table. This is not just a problem of poverty; it is a problem of inequality. The wealthiest 1% of Americans hold more than 40% of the country’s wealth, while the bottom 90% hold just 27%. This disparity is reflected in the way we eat.

The consequences are dire. Diabetes, heart disease, and obesity are just a few of the health problems that are disproportionately affecting low-income communities.

But the cost of eating goes beyond the individual. It is a symptom of a broader economic problem. The rise of the gig economy and zero-hours contracts has created a class of workers who are unable to afford the basic necessities of life, including food. It’s mindful of the day when workers would line up at the factories to “catch turns”. And a cruel irony today is the fact that many workers are employed in the food industry itself.

So, what is the solution to this problem? Some might argue that the answer lies in food banks and other forms of charity. While these organizations do vital work, they are merely a sticking plaster on a much deeper wound. The real solution lies in addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality.

Groceries are expensive and people are sick and tired of worrying if they will be able to buy enough food to get through the month. This is why there are non-profit food pantries all over America. Many, deliver truckloads of food to communities where hundreds of people line up for a sack of groceries. Ten years ago, it cost $1,000 to sponsor such a project but today it’s closer to $3,500 and growing.

In 2024, the average American spent around $418.44 per month on groceries, but the cost varies depending on location, household size, and personal habits.

As I finish writing this piece, I am reminded of the words of the great food writer, Michael Pollan. “The way we eat represents our most profound engagement with the natural world.” The way we eat is not just a matter of personal choice; it is a reflection of our values and our priorities.

While Americans do all we can to stretch our dollars and shop wisely, we ask our state and federal elected leaders to help us all they can. But, do they have the ability to understand? Many of our Congress leaders are multi-millionaires. They probably haven’t noticed much when going to the store. Unfortunately, many Americans’ grocery lists are getting shorter because there is only so much a family can afford.

Does anybody in Washington have the ability to care?

So, let us choose to prioritize fairness, equality, and justice. Let us recognize that the cost of eating is not just a matter of personal finance, but a reflection of our society’s values. And let us work towards creating a world where everyone has access to healthy, affordable food, regardless of their income or social status. Anything less is unacceptable.