Delonte Ward
Mr. McShane
English 110
24 October 2013
Essay Two
The United States of America takes on the reputation of being the richest nation in the world.
Although America may have this title, there is still a tremendous amount of the population living in
poverty. According to the United States Census Bureau, about 43 million people are living in poverty.
This stat demponstrates how easy it is for society to overlook those that are in need. This gap between
the rich and poor is the number one reason why America has a food gap. The cost of healthy foods,
along with the availabilty and the access are all part of the reason this food gap has expanded and still
is. The food gap separates those with the money to purchase the right foods away from those who aren't
able to do the same.
When buisnesses make decisions, their decision isn't based on the general welfare of the society
in America, but based on economics. This “food gap” that Mark Winne talks about in his reading is a
big issue, ethically. While existing in the same society, some people make the money to maintain a
healhy diet while others, starve or gormandize and become obese. Society only focuses on the food gap
between different nations. America depends on USDA programs and thousands of community-based
food projects to manage the poverty within our society.
Nowadays, the cost and availability of healthy foods contribute to the food gap. For example,
McDonald's have a variety of burgers and other items on the value menu, while at least containing
some, there are only few healthy items on the menu. Most fast food restaurants have cheaper, but
higher calory, meals available for their customers. Also, whole food and organic stores are a lot more
expensive than bargain stores. People that live in poverty are unable to eat healthy foods because of the
cost. This is why many people result to buying foods that are reasonably cheap, like soda, chips,
