Keishalee Torres doesn’t eat many vegetables. “I mostly just get lettuce,” she said while shopping at Food Zone International Supermarket in Springfield, Massachusetts. At 24 weeks pregnant, she appreciates her Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) card, which helps her buy groceries.
Shopping smart is crucial, especially with rising prices. “I won’t buy strawberries because they’re $8,” Torres mentioned. “I wouldn’t pay that much myself, so why use my WIC card?”
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food prices are going up—fresh vegetables are among the most affected. Prices are projected to increase by at least 3% this year. One reason for this rise? Climate change.
Claire Morenon from the Community for Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) shared that New England farmers face unpredictable weather, which can lead to crop loss. “It’s tougher for them to grow food, and that increases costs,” she explained. Morenon added that the burden shouldn’t fall solely on low-income families or small farms.
Despite these challenges, there are ways to make a difference. Buying directly from local farms not only supports growers but also helps the environment. “When you choose local, you’re helping the farmers who care for the land,” Morenon noted.
WIC nutritionist Caroline Seymour, who helps clients like Torres, focuses primarily on nutrition. Environmental concerns often take a backseat for those on a tight budget. “My clients aren’t responsible for climate change; they just need to eat well,” she said.
Seymour encourages healthy eating without breaking the bank. Buying items like onions, dried beans, grains, and nut butters in bulk can save money and reduce packaging waste. She also recommends seasonal produce. “When fruits and veggies are in season, prices drop significantly because they travel shorter distances,” she explained.
Local food not only costs less but also uses less fossil fuel. Plus, food assistance programs often provide extra funds for purchasing fresh produce from nearby farms.
Healthy meals can be budget-friendly. Seymour suggests a combo of protein, fruit or vegetable, and a grain in every meal. Take breakfast: oatmeal made with milk, a scoop of peanut butter for protein, and a banana on top. Buy oatmeal in bulk and switch the banana for seasonal berries when available. It’s tasting good and helps both your wallet and the climate.
Growing evidence supports the connection between local food systems and stronger communities. According to a recent survey by the USDA, areas with strong local food movements see better health outcomes, lower food insecurity, and tighter community bonds.
So, even simple choices in the grocery store can have a big impact. By being mindful about what we buy, we support local farmers, eat healthier, and contribute to a sustainable future.
For more insights on food prices and climate change, visit USDA’s Food Price Outlook.
