Rewriting the Narrative: Advancing Justice and Equity in the U.S. Food System

Abstract

The concept of 'food justice' recognizes the systemic injustices embedded in the U.S. food system and the urgent need for transformative policies to ensure equitable access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally relevant food. Limited access to these foods drives food insecurity and increases the prevalence of diet-related diseases in low-income and minority communities. Dominant narratives that individualize hunger and food insecurity often blame the individual and overlook the underlying structural factors that sustain these issues. These narratives have considerable influence. They shape public opinion and can also guide policy decisions. This commentary explores the goals of the food justice movement in the U.S., describes how the food and racial justice movements intersect, and examines the role of commercial marketing and public policy in shaping the food justice discourse. We also reflect on the efforts that should be made to reframe these dominant narratives and facilitate meaningful change in the food environment.

Keywords: U.S. food system; commercial marketing; diet-related diseases; food environment; food insecurity; food justice; racial justice.