Week 11 Readings

Public policy is one of the biggest factors that shapes a communities food system.
The readings this week discussed how different policies that are not directly related
to food can ultimately change the food system. For example, the transportation system of a
particular city has a huge effect on what food is easily accessible to different groups of people.
If the bus route on the south side of town doesn't have any stops near a major supermarket, the
people that rely on that bus will generally have less food options than someone who lives in
a different part of town. In many communities, policy is shaped by special interest groups or
people with political motive. Obviously, under these circumstances, public policy is put in place
to advance a certain agenda, not necessarily for the good of the public.

Food policy councils are a viable option to combat the problems with current public policies.
They involve many different stakeholders that all have a say in the decision making process.
The public holds more power under this system and are not subject to the whims of special
interests. Since more people are involved in the shaping of policy, more ideas will be brought
to light, which can lead to increased innovation. I believe that when it comes to a community's
food system, special interests and political motive should be left out. Healthy food is essential
for every human, so it should be priority one for any policy makers.