Food Insecurity in the United States; Examining Inequality, Structural Barriers Health Impacts, and Policy Interventions

Abstract

Food insecurity continues to be a major public health issue in the United States, affecting millions of people even though the country has strong economic resources. The purpose of this literature review is to examine the main causes, impacts, and possible solutions to food insecurity by looking at current research and national data. This paper focuses on four main themes: socioeconomic inequality as a primary cause, the physical and mental health effects of limited food access, environmental and structural barriers like food deserts and transportation issues, and the role of government policies and community-based programs. Research shows that food insecurity is strongly connected to poverty, limited access to resources, and gaps in support systems, while also increasing the risk of chronic illness and negative mental health outcomes. Although programs like SNAP, WIC, and the National School Lunch Program, as well as community resources, help in reducing food insecurity, they are not always consistent or accessible for everyone. Overall, the findings suggest that addressing food insecurity requires a more comprehensive approach that includes stronger policies, better access to resources, improvements in infrastructure, and support for mental health. Future research should still evaluate long-term program effectiveness, the lasting impacts of COVID-19, and differences between rural and urban communities to better understand how to create more sustainable solutions.