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. 2009 Jul;4(3-4):393-408.
doi: 10.1080/19320240903321367. Epub 2009 Dec 11.

Agriculture Policy Is Health Policy

Richard J Jackson  1 , Ray Minjares, Kyra S Naumoff, Bina Patel Shrimali, Lisa K Martin
Affiliations
Free PMC article

Agriculture Policy Is Health Policy

Richard J Jackson et al. J Hunger Environ Nutr. 2009 Jul.
Free PMC article

Abstract

The Farm Bill is meant to supplement and secure farm incomes, ensure a stable food supply, and support the American farm economy. Over time, however, it has evolved into a system that creates substantial health impacts, both directly and indirectly. By generating more profit for food producers and less for family farmers; by effectively subsidizing the production of lower-cost fats, sugars, and oils that intensify the health-destroying obesity epidemic; by amplifying environmentally destructive agricultural practices that impact air, water, and other resources, the Farm Bill influences the health of Americans more than is immediately apparent. In this article, we outline three major public health issues influenced by American farm policy. These are (1) rising obesity; (2) food safety; and (3) environmental health impacts, especially exposure to toxic substances and pesticides.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
The American food supply contains too many fats and sugars and not enough fruits and vegetables.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
From 1980 to 2000, food marketing costs increased 57% and farm value increased 16%.
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3
Processed grocery food sales compose the majority of supermarket sales, 2000.
FIGURE 4
FIGURE 4
Consumption of fats, oils, and sugars has increased from 1970 to 2000.
FIGURE 5
FIGURE 5
The real cost of fruits and vegetables has increased and the real cost of fats, oils, and soda has decreased.
FIGURE 6
FIGURE 6
Overall calorie intake has increased with portion size.
FIGURE 7
FIGURE 7
The number of farms has declined and the average size of farms has increased.
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