Ninth International Conference on Food Studies

Abstract

In this essay, I argue that the differences in dietary habits and unequal distribution of obesity arise from food inequities, which I define as structural faults that cause households in poverty to have limited access to a range of diets. I first explore the role of the food industry and the charity sector in reinforcing barriers to access healthier food. I do this by explaining the concept of poverty and how those living in poverty are bound by practical constraints and imperfect information, hence being rendered in a situation of food insecurity where households become less able to choose healthier food options. I then consider the role of the state and look at how the British government has responded to the obesity epidemic. I also consider the paradox of care versus control, which complicates the decisions of when and how much a government should intervene. Finally, I return to the micro level of analysis, to explore the support that households could be provided with to maximise their ability to choose the foods they consume. This is done by exploring the potential of cooking skills and knowledge for households to increase their agency and prevent themselves from being exploited by the food industry.