Black Americans Have Doubts About the U.S. Food System

September 16, 2026

A new report from Word In Black reveals that Black Americans understand the importance of healthy eating but face significant economic and systemic obstacles in accessing nutritious food. The survey of over 1,200 Black Americans found that 60% distrust grocery store food safety, and rising costs are forcing families to choose cheaper, less healthy alternatives through practices like "trading down" to store brands or lower-quality items. While respondents demonstrate high awareness of nutrition's impact on health, with price being their top priority when selecting grocery stores, they cite affordability and proximity as major barriers rather than lack of knowledge.

Who is affected

Black Americans, particularly lower-income families
Black families choosing between affordability and nutrition
Younger Black adults aged 18-34 who eat out frequently
Respondents with varying education levels, including one-third with postgraduate degrees
The largest income group surveyed earning $100,000 or more annually
Black Americans with diet-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease
Readers of Word In Black and 10 partner Black news outlets nationwide

What action is being taken

Black Americans are "trading down" by swapping higher-priced foods for cheaper alternatives like store brands or chicken instead of steak
Respondents are looking for manager's specials, using coupons, and using mobile apps for savings
Some Black Americans are relying on local food pantries
Respondents are buying fewer fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat, and bypassing organic foods
People are accepting lower-quality food or skipping healthier options altogether
Healthcare providers (doctors, nutritionists, caregivers) are speaking with 73% of respondents regularly or occasionally about their diet and eating habits
More than one in three respondents are dining out (including fast food, takeout, or restaurants) three or more times per week

Why it matters

This research matters because it exposes a critical gap between nutritional knowledge and access among Black Americans, challenging assumptions that health disparities stem from lack of awareness. The findings reveal that systemic barriers—particularly rising food costs and limited proximity to quality grocery stores—are forcing families to compromise their health, potentially widening existing health disparities in Black communities. With 46% of respondents linking U.S. food systems to diet-related diseases like diabetes and heart disease, and many accepting lower-quality food due to economic constraints, the report highlights an urgent public health crisis rooted in structural inequality. The research provides evidence that addressing Black Americans' food access requires economic and policy interventions rather than simply education campaigns, which has significant implications for how public health resources should be allocated.

What's next

Policymakers, community health organizations, and food retailers are called upon to expand access to healthy foods through subsidies
Organizations should invest in culturally relevant nutrition programs
Partners should work with trusted community leaders to deliver health education where Black Americans already live, work, worship, and gather
Public health interventions should use the 38% demand for nutrition education as an entry point

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint