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Cultural food insecurity in the United States is not limited to food scarcity. It includes the absence of culturally appropriate sustenance. While many misinterpret food insecurity as famine and extreme deprivation, the reality is closer to home for many individuals.

Cultural food insecurity, a term coined in 2008 by Elaine Power and further explained by Elena Briones Alonso and colleagues in 2018, encompasses unreliable access to traditional foods essential for cultural preservation. Despite its significance, the lack of standardized metrics complicates assessment and awareness of the issue's scope.

Disparities and marginalized communities

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food insecurity affects 12.8% of households, totaling 17 million individuals in 2022, a notable increase from the previous year. However, this definition fails to adequately address the exclusion of culturally significant foods, a historical oversight rooted in the dominance of Eurocentric food systems.

Additionally, marginalized communities, such as Black, Hispanic and Native American households, disproportionately experience higher rates of food insecurity, further elevating cultural food insecurities.

Food, identity, and mental well-being

The consequences extend beyond physical health -- it impacts mental well-being and cultural identity. The absence of culturally relevant foods contributes to acculturative stress and diminishes individuals' connections to their heritage, leading to emotional distress and adverse mental health outcomes.

Conversely, embracing cultural foodways and systems enhances overall well-being. This emphasizes the link between food, identity and mental health.

Addressing cultural food insecurity

Addressing cultural food insecurity requires the combination of multiple approaches, including governmental initiatives to provide access to culturally appropriate foods through federal nutrition programs and funding allocations.

Additionally, community-led efforts, such as local food cooperatives and advocacy for culturally diverse food offerings in food banks, are essential for promoting inclusivity and addressing disparities at the grassroots level.