Walking around Southside, I suddenly craved a crisp, juicy apple. I needed a refreshing snack to lift my spirits. But as I wandered through convenience stores and past fast food joints, I realized something troubling: there weren’t any healthy options. It felt like I was trapped in a food desert right in the heart of a vibrant college town.
This lack of access to fresh and affordable food is more than just a hassle—it’s a serious issue. Southside, home to thousands of UC Berkeley students, doesn’t have enough grocery stores with fresh produce. Sure, there’s the Berkeley Student Food Collective, which tries to help, but its options are limited. Many students end up buying overpriced snacks instead of nutritious meals, which can negatively affect their health and well-being.
Ironically, while healthy food options are scarce, fast food chains are popping up everywhere. From Cold Stone Creamery to Raising Cane’s, these places might be convenient, but they don’t provide the balanced meals students need. This trend raises questions about Berkeley’s approach to urban planning.
Historically, the city has championed local businesses. In 1999, the Berkeley City Council even enacted rules to prevent too many quick-service restaurants from taking over. This was intended to protect the local vibe and ensure a variety of dining options. But over time, these protective measures have weakened. Now, big chains are invading used to be bustling local spots, worsening the food desert crisis.
What Southside needs is a grocery store that caters to the diverse needs of students. With Berkeley focusing on sustainability and progressive values, it’s surprising that there isn’t a full-service store nearby.
Experts agree that this food crisis can’t be ignored. According to a 2022 study by the USDA, food deserts affect nearly 19 million Americans, impacting their health and increasing obesity rates. Students need access to healthy foods to thrive, especially during their demanding college years.
Berkeley’s City Council has a chance to address this situation. By restricting new fast food permits and encouraging local grocery stores, they could foster a healthier Southside. This would not just benefit students; it would enhance the overall community’s well-being.
A focus on healthier options is crucial. UC Berkeley students care about their health and the environment. They deserve better than a steady diet of fast food. By prioritizing local grocery stores over corporate chains, Berkeley can finally tackle the food desert issue and support the diverse, health-conscious community at UC Berkeley.
Let’s hope for a future where healthy, accessible food is not just a dream but a reality for all.
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Source linksouthside, fast food, berkeley student food collective, cold stone creamery, raising cane
