Food security in rural America: A study of the availability and costs of food

Abstract

This study examined three major determinants of food security in rural America. Objectives were to determine 1) rural/urban supermarket availability, 2) food item availability, and 3) the actual costs of a USDA Thrifty Food Plan (TFP) marketbasket relative to food stamp allotments in persistently poor rural America. Marketing and government data were examined to compare supermarket density. Food availability and TFP costs were surveyed in a stratified random sample of persistently poor rural counties. Fifty-one supermarkets and 82 small/medium stores were surveyed in 33 nonmetropolitan counties. A TFP marketbasket of 77 nutritious, low-cost foods in 31 categories was priced in each store. The quantity and quality of fresh vegetables, fruits, and meats was recorded. Results showed an average of 3.8 supermarkets per county in rural America versus 29 in urban America (1988). Average TFP marketbasket cost was $102 in small/medium stores and $81 in supermarkets. Actual supermarket TFP costs were 8% higher, and small/medium store costs 36% higher, than the USDA's recommended cost of $75. Fresh foods were very limited in small/medium stores. A 17% increase in food stamp benefit allotments, and changes in methods used to price the TFP, are necessary to ensure food security in rural America.