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Food Insecurity

Unemployment, poverty, and income shocks are key factors which can prevent adequate access to food. People in all counties experience food insecurity but levels of food insecurity vary by population and place, reflecting systems and policies that prevent certain households and communities from accessing the food they need. Food insecurity among the Black population is higher than that of the white population in all counties. Population 18 years and under in all counties experience higher food insecurity as well.

Data Notes
Definition	Food Insecurity: The lack of access by all people at all times to enough food for an active, healthy life. Food Budget Shortfall: The total annualized additional dollar amount that food-insecure individuals need, on average, to purchase just enough food to meet their food needs. It is assumed that individuals in households that are food insecure experience food insecurity, on average, seven months out of the year. This amount has been adjusted to reflect local food prices and relevant taxes. Average Meal Cost: The average weekly dollar amount food-secure individuals spending on food divided by 21 (assuming three meals a day, seven days a weeks). This amount has been adjusted to reflect local food prices and relevant taxes.
Data Source	Feeding America, Map the Meal Gap
Last Updated	April 2024