Trying to Eat Healthy in a Food Desert

We take a look at systemic racism in America's food systems.
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[@patrickgatherer]

So much admiration for that kid working in the farm/kitchen despite what his peer group thinks and says. Strength.

[@XxMetalGorxX]

meanwhile his peers making fun at him can't cook a healthy meal to save themselves.

[@cobracurse]

Peer pressure can literally kill.

[@alundavies8402]

@@cobracurse unfortunately you are correct

[@spasticbrit]

Calling him a slave for working on a farm, whilst they are wage slaves themselves, the irony is too much

[@moihawk666]

I believe it's very necessary and very difficult to find one's own path.I hope he is rewarded for his efforts.

[@CommanderWar64]

Okay, but that Brain Food business is a million dollar idea. It’s pretty genius.

[@ru7935]

@@dertythegrower Go away victim!

[@ryno4ever433]

@@dertythegrower This goes back to capitalism dude. Black people are more often poor due to their history in this country, so businesses like whole foods won't put a store in their neighborhoods because they won't make money since noone can afford to shop there. This results in effective racism because of the wealth gap. The racism is not intentional, and perhaps that's not even the appropriate term in this instance, but it does exist. Also, it's pretty weird for you to bring up Africa in a discussion about racism in America while trying to claim "I'm not racist, you're racist". What does Africa have to do with this if you think race doesn't matter? Africans don't have anything to do with black Americans. So do you understand how this works now, or do you need me to break it down further?

[@MariahBunni]

I agree! That is such a great idea!

[@MariahBunni]

@@dertythegrower oh you poor thing! Grab a glass of milk and go back to bed grandpa!

[@ChristopherInTexas]

Billion*

[@yass123]

Proud of my Yemeni brother supporting his community by offering healthier options instead of another corner Bodega with 99¢ crap.

[@wryckingbaul8612]

No, he did that already. Now he's trying to get the other side of the coin. Don't be fooled. When it mattered the most he sold the bullshit!

[@MrLakers92]

@@wryckingbaul8612 on point

[@Aidsjew32]

@@wryckingbaul8612 ayeeeeeeee speak that truth my brother

[@Farah0122]

@@wryckingbaul8612 better late than never. And mind you bodegas still make money, he said it himself if it didn’t work he would flip it back. He could even get a fast joint and be rich off of that but still chose something in which he’s one of the first. If you’re gonna be negative at least be convincing.

[@t78079]

@@wryckingbaul8612 what matters most is the past and not the present or future? I don't think anyone will get far with that take

[@joancrawford5781]

I love that the Jamaican woman's program has a recipe book. One of the biggest barriers to transitioning to healthy eating and maintaining healthy eating for anyone is finding recipes to make healthy eating tasty.

[@mae8646]

I grew up in a food desert and what kept us from eating healthy definitely wasn't lack of recipes, thanks to the internet and google. Driving 45 minutes to a grocery store was the problem

[@iisamber]

But then you have to find the time to cook, which many people who are purchasing fast food or eating out, usually are just picking food up on the way from work, and then fast food more likely becomes the option bc of the affordability, so I think there is a complex web of reasons why maintaining a healthy food diet is difficult, especially for the working class

[@silvermediastudio]

Yeah it's almost impossible to find recipes these days. It's not like when we were growing up before the internet.

[@DustinHallXVX]

One thing I wanna point out is that Whole Foods actually opened up a store in Detroit where everyone said "No one is gonna shop here. It's too expensive. This community can't afford it." That belief was SO STRONG that Whole Foods even started a charity called "Whole Cities" to subsidize the losses they were expecting in Detroit. BUT... when the store finally opened, it was a success and people came out of the woodwork to shop there. It was profitable within one year (a miracle in the low-margin grocery industry). If you build it, we will come!

[@deejaykay2345]

It is located in Midtown Detroit where gentrification is occurring. The fastest-growing racial population in Midtown is white while the black population is the fastest diminishing population.

[@killmewhileimahead]

I thought of Detroit immediately. I avoid going to that Whole Foods because the parking is horrible. The Meijer on 8 mile is also congested and is much smaller than its suburban counterparts. Let me reiterate by pointing out both of these places proximity to white people. In between 8 mile & downtown, there’s not much access to quality products. This includes food, clothes, housewares, self care products, etc. Most of our shopping has to be done driving to the suburbs which is not possible if you don’t have transportation.

[@honeydew1]

whole foods is expensive, aldis and trader joes are cheap and healthy grocery chains but they only put them in white neighborhood (less so aldis)

[@boosted211]

@@killmewhileimahead this is what people arent getting about low income housing in the suburbs. they keep putting these businesses closer to the suburbs that are going to employ low income people that cant afford to shop there or live close. causing them to have to commute and need more expensive transportation. more time away from building family. add to it here in MA they want to make it so you have to get repairs done at dealerships. 150/hr or more for labor and no options for cheaper parts. the war against the poor is never ending.

[@killmewhileimahead]

@@boosted211 let’s not forget the increased rate of car insurance because of your address too. Suburban cities have much lower rates.

[@akwright4116]

As a Brooklynite, I know where these places are. I can’t believe that old checkers i use to hit up is gonna be a food justice bodega, that’s amazing!

[@ChrisInAVan]

@@dertythegrower You agree with her and then inserted your propaganda. Nice fake news you got there.

[@cageybee7221]

@@dertythegrower gee, it's almost as if racism does permeate every level of society, so much so that it doesn't take much effort for journalists to find it.

[@PeteyS.D.]

@@dertythegrower Yea tell me about it. Now it's blame whitey for their poor food choices, WTF! The victimhood mentality is real!!!

[@replynotificationsdisabled]

Bunch of victims in here I see. Usual Vice

[@roycampbell586]

@@dertythegrower Where did this video blame white people for anything? This video is about corporations, farms, and food. I have to wonder where your head is at if taking a shot at a corporation means taking a shot at white people.

[@TheRealCantaraBella]

I had to take a 3 hour bus route to get to a grocery store in TX, or a $50 cab 1 way. I started growing things in my yard, and it was a hard chapter of my life.

[@zulubeatz817]

Woah

[@honeybdream]

Bravo!

[@rachaelm7084]

That’s so tough! Wonderful that you took matters into your own hands.

[@sarahjane4266]

How are things going now? Have you gotten used to growing things ?

[@cherkkiable]

This is the way to go! Growing up, it was something normal to grow 25-50% of our food. Not event talking how therapeutic is to grow fruits and veggies

[@heatherfeather9951]

The Brain Food store concept is brilliant; it really could be a national chain.

[@TanJRHeaux]

Once it gets to a certain stage though, you just know the sugar/fast food industry is going to sink its claws into it and inject it w greenwashed products tho :/

[@mangopeach9262]

@Don Bastardo Why the sarcasm? Yes there are many healthy deli’s before this one but none of them I have seen in the “hood” or sell meals as low as $5. It’s not only the concept of healthy food but the location and market value. So yes it’s quite an amazing idea.

[@Da1Prophessor]

My people in the Caribbean islands fail to realize how good they have it... man growing up eating fruits fresh off the tree was GREAT. This is one of my motivation for going back home every summer - fresh fruits, vegetables and fish....👍🏽🇰🇳🇻🇮

[@Togomei]

I miss the sugar cane fields back home. 🇰🇳🇰🇳

[@Da1Prophessor]

@@Togomei fo sho... Sandy Point, SKB

[@kickballfever]

I miss the mangoes in St. Croix.

[@ZackWilliams_TheProducer]

That sounds amazing. I remember one hot summer when I was a teenager me and my friend were walking down a path with a blunt and we found a tree of the fattest and juiciest mulberries. We stood under it smoking that blunt and eating those juicy mulberries for the next couple of hours. It's was a glorious experience.

[@cheaze69]

Explain to these Americans that they can get off their lazy asses and cook like they did back home.

[@libertasaeterna5365]

"What kind of fish is that?" lol

[@ariefraiser140]

So I wasn't the only one who busted out laughing when he said that....😂

[@SuperDev1n]

@@ariefraiser140 I'm guilty😂

[@piecesofme8531]

Child you can legitimately ask the same question about the fish in Whole Foods.

[@---pz2yh]

They use wild pacific pollock, it's the most commonly used fish in the restaurant industry.

[@sittinonthegodamcornerdoindope]

@@piecesofme8531 it’s definitely not as “sustainable” as they promise, but it’s a hell of a lot healthier than the cheaper alternatives.

[@debbiemarquis3231]

As a child growing up in the Caribbean..i could identify with the sister...whatever fruits that was in season was our snacks..and my mom cooked fresh food everyday...

[@deebestest100]

Yup. Fast food is a treat. It’s mango season now and we’re just gifted mangos daily. Not to mention the crops that grow year round. I feel for these 40 million people. No one deserves this.

[@subliminalpain]

I didn't know supermarkets existed until I came to the states. We grew EVERYTHING!

[@Fridelain]

In Spain, there's more figs in reach (5min walk) than I know what to do with. Kids walk by, they had no idea what I was doing picking them off the trees. Same with beet greens, asparagus, tagarninas (young edible thristle), verdolaga, dandelion, and a bunch other things when they are in season. My father and uncles are from the countryside and they taught me how to identify some. Food grows on the cracks of the sidewalk. I grew a couple cherry tomato plants from seed on a 5 gallon paint bucket filled with dirt from a nearby construction site. They grew. 20 feet long (I attached the stem to a wall with screw hooks and some scrap bits of plastic) and they gave me pounds upon pounds of the most tasty tomatoes I have eaten. A few months in they developed some black spots on the leaves, a really nasty mold that also affects commercial plantations. The plants died from the bottom up, even as new tomatoes developed and ripened. The black spots "explode" and propel the mold. The spores take two years to become inert, in the meanwhile you can't grow any solanaceae (potatoes, tomatoes, tobacco). I also grew potatoes and a few other things.

[@ScourgeMonastik-oj1uo]

Same...first generation American here!

[@ronny4927]

here in Kenya, the cost of a single burger and fries is enough to feed your organic food for a whole week 😂😂😂😂

[@jalalkphilosophy]

Yeap, cause here they are still not as everywhere as in the US

[@boosted211]

the beef industry here in the us is out of control. nothing like it anywhere and its totally unsustainable. it also pollutes an incredible amount and no one really talks about it. worse than almost every other industry i think.

[@carrieullrich5059]

Americas food subsidies make junk unhealthy food cheaper than healthy food. We're the only country on Earth that does that.

[@mohamedsmusa3503]

I miss the Kenyan food here in Canada we have whole foods but still nothing beats the African breath of fresh foods...

[@spandegwa]

The price of three pieces of chicken and small fries in KFC, can buy 20 kgs of fresh potatoes at the local market here. We just can't bring ourselves to spend money that can feed a whole family for two weeks on one meal. It doesn't seem like the best decision especially when on a budget

[@CCRob720]

She has a solid point. I can feel my body crying for fresh foods.

[@freealexlee]

I don’t know about the racist stuff but one thing we must agree on is that fresh food is needed! It’s like choosing more efficient fuel over crap fuel

[@wfpbwfpb]

Whole food plant based!!!!!

[@Camibug]

@@dertythegrower this video really got to you didn’t it?

[@DAndyLord]

@@dertythegrower Organic food is a scam. The products, on average, are less nutrient dense than traditional farmed goods and organic farming requires more land per calorie of food produced. Modern farming is the only way we'll feed 8bn folk. I really like small urban farms, but they're not the answer to food deserts.

[@ATXSmokinAce]

@@DAndyLord wrong

[@geezygee]

Seeing healthy foods as a boujie stigma of gentrification is part of the problem as well. On the same side of the coin; fruits, vegetables, grains and proteins grown properly and available in abundance shouldn't be made more expensive by retailers, or only placed outside of red lined districts. Living off the land, eating the fuel your body needs, this should be an everyone thing! I hope Brain Foods keeps spreading the good news that healthy food CAN be inclusive!

[@T1Oracle]

Making healthy food affordable and accessible would reverse that stigma in a generation. The stigma is just people trying to avoid the pain of the reality they've been placed in.

[@alundavies8402]

You two have got it right because healthy food is really something that should be classed as a human right

[@davidz2808]

Yes, cheap nutritious food from a supermarket is usually cheaper than buying food from KFC, McDonald's etc.

[@octosquatch.]

Healthy food is cheaper in most places, but it takes way more time to prepare, and for a single parent that may seem impossible. The stigma is one thing, but there are so many other things...

[@cloudraker100]

@@octosquatch. sorry raven, I have to disagree with you on that point. I cook for my family and predominantly cook from scratch. Fast food is a treat or for a road trip. I use slow cookers, pressure cookers and thrift store bread makers to help me out. Most meals are 30 mins. I work 3 jobs BTW. Its not easy but worth it for health and your pocket book.

[@Asgoga]

I am from EU country and i am really shocked to see this. I live in a city of 15k people and we have here around 5 medium-big supermarkets and many more small ones. They all reachable without any problems by foot, the average distance is around 1km. We have a good selection of all sorts of foods, including plenty of local grown vegetables and fruits like apples, cabbage, carrots, zucchini, pears, berries and mushrooms. Also every Wednesday and Saturday there is farm market near me, that you can go to buy natural produce straight from farmers hands. Everything cost normal prices, nothing outrageos and food quality is very high, because of the strict laws here which ensures healthy food for everyone. If you make 1500€/month you can live comfortable life (including rent) in the center of the nation's capital.

[@markcarter3653]

Where is this place that you speak of?

[@clarissagafoor5222]

@@markcarter3653 every EU country!

[@31keyful]

@@markcarter3653 Clarissa is right, everywhere in the EU.

[@ardasari7692]

@@markcarter3653 clarissa is wrong jsjdks

[@saint_gales]

@@clarissagafoor5222 not really... the uk, scandinavia and slavic countries have a pretty unhealthy diet. its in the mediterranean where the good stuff is

[@dewilew2137]

I don’t really understand it when people say that they can ONLY afford to eat fast food. I can literally only afford to cook all my meals at home. Eating out is FAR more expensive, even fast food. I don’t think these people are doing the math correctly.

[@Sean-rh9kp]

You have more time. Some people don't have more than 30 minutes between jobs and kids to cook. Figure that math out.

[@dewilew2137]

Sean okay,THEN SAY TIME, don’t use money as an excuse. The fact is that it’s not more expensive. And I don’t have any more free time than anyone else, I just prioritize what is important to me, like everyone else. Figure your own math out, you’re an adult.

[@Megan-vn3yt]

@@dewilew2137 I saw someone else comment a story about having an exchange student only having a dollar for breakfast every day.there’s tons of fast food restaurants that have dollar menu’s.if you break down the costs of cooking into portions,cooking is just as cheap(depending on the area)but I image the up front costs of spending $100-$200 for a month of groceries is what’s keeping people from doing the same as you

[@digger4904]

@@Aksfsc LOL, I just had a whole rotisserie chicken from a local store for $6.00. How bad is that?

[@cius2112]

​@@Sean-rh9kp lol your mom made everything for you didn't they?

[@Satikal]

Oh I thought he was trying to find food in the desert 💀

[@gozjoka5339]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/opeToH2hbdOhn9mu

[@renee7528]

Ha!

[@kenchung2675]

Ya. I thought that too. 😅

[@tika2glamorous]

Lmaoooo

[@mercuryfillings8576]

Nope, just cringePropoganda

[@wyattpalmer936]

i had a student who told me he was given 1 dollar for breakfast every day. he went to the corner store and bought whatever he could. thankfully they had homemade Jamaican patties for 1 dollar. otherwise i cant imagine what he would've had for breakfast everyday

[@LastbutNotFirst]

i grew up not ever getting breakfast.. so i mean, 1 dollar for breakfast isnt that bad.

[@punkgrl325]

Sadly, pattiex are still technically fast food, but I guess it's still better than nothing.

[@samaraisnt]

that's why school breakfast should be free? It's been proven to increase child's engagement in class and many students go hungry without it.

[@deebestest100]

@@LastbutNotFirst I think the point is that a child would be held responsible for their own food choice. Which isn’t good either,

[@aesyamazeli8804]

Poor kid, he should be given a lump sum for the week so he can buy eggs and bread.

[@John-mf6ky]

I grew up in a small rural town, It was the same thing. There will only be a store or two (one always being walmart) but there will be four or five fastfood spots..

[@silvermediastudio]

Walmart has produce.

[@davehallam3639]

If a grocery store could be profitable in a black neighborhood they would stay there. Problem solvers are needed. You can eat healthy on a budget.

[@Xyb3rTeCh]

7:28 "Ohh you're not afraid of that?" "I'm Jamaican!"

[@aden-lj7wb]

took me tf out lmao

[@DannyPellham]

Yo immediately clicked on this because I had to do a report about “Food Deserts” when I was a kid and immediately remembered not taking it seriously, being super bored. But when I watched this you guys made it way easier to communicate and really get this message across in a great way. Good job Vice keep it up👍

[@ButtBanginTranny]

Are you able to now interpret mature topics easier as an "adult"?

[@MrShepard65]

@@ButtBanginTranny Jeez, some "people" really do feel the need to comment on everything.

[@samaraisnt]

Food desserts aren't remotely boring? It sounds like you were just a "super bored" student I mean it's straight forward: Poor/minority neighborhoods are being starved...what's boring about that. Lol try to take accountability for your learning. John is right. Glad you're matured.

[@DannyPellham]

@@samaraisnt bro ur really gonna try to argue with me ur life sad that’s all I gotta say, was trying to give a compliment to the makers of the film that’s all👋

[@baneverything5580]

My seafood market was repeatedly violently robbed by these vile democrat racists. I hope they rot in hell!

[@idimus]

Brooklyn is not even close to a food desert. Yes, we do have lots of junk food. Google map Brooklyn New York , search for grocery stores, fruit vegetables stores. There is fresh fruit and vegetables and inexpensive food within walking distance just about anywhere in Brooklyn.

[@knoxherrington299]

Yes, but then they couldn’t say it’s racism and a crisis.

[@stevenliang3213]

Yet he chooses to do something productive instead whining and complaining like you do.

[@earthchansociety7769]

“Healthy food is always stigmatized to be a white thing”. I seriously think we need to start realizing certain things are good in general, and shouldn’t just be a race based thing.

[@patrykwoloch8114]

Thank you. Not everything has to be the fault of racism and systemic oppression. People can make their own choices, they don’t have to stick to racial generalisation.

[@loopy8241]

@@patrykwoloch8114 Did you not watch the video? The people who live there don’t have the option to buy healthy food, because it’s either too expensive or they don’t sell it in their area. + It is the fault of systemic racism.

[@TMcGee123]

Sorry. But that statement in the video is ridiculous. Eating healthy is a choice, and while I cannot speak for all low income black areas, the areas I work in and where I drive through to work with my other distributors I see plenty of sellers of fruits and vegetables, whether they be on the side of the road out of a truck, or in the supermarkets/bodegas. Now if you wanna make the argument that not enough organic produce is available in low income areas, I can agree that I do not see much being offered. At the end of the day, people have the available options to eat healthy in areas I’ve worked in and been through in/around NYC that would be considered low income and primarily black. It’s up to each of us to take control of what we want for ourselves. Also I think it is toxic to associate healthy eating with a race. Vegetables and fruits and wholesome foods are not created with labels on them and we shouldn’t assign them either. Spend your money where it matter and the companies will come, low income or high income communities alike. Demand better for ourselves and our communities.

[@davecullins1606]

Ask them about the weather and they'll say that clouds are racist

[@wrightwing3992]

It's just concentrated bs and you all know it. Asian Americans have been eating healthy food for decades and you all make it out to be a white vs black race thing.

[@brothabuddha879]

If u don't want a nice fresh salad and a smoothie after this something is wrong, I haven't eaten from a fast food joint since before covid started and I think I'm done with them. I am currently on a low carb/keto diet but considering going Keto/Vegan something I didn't even know existed. I'm a big dude, wish me luck. This video was a good solid inspiration for me this morning, much appreciated.

[@wbtbwb360]

And I'm eating my Sunday morning tacos😋👌

[@MariahBunni]

Good for you man! I’m trying to eat healthier too haha

[@activistbook3809]

Good.luck brothef

[@everythingasmr1601]

I feel like yes the problem is all this other stuff but at the end of the day McDonald’s and checkers and Wendy’s is only able to essentially feed us garbage because we continue to buy it. It’s up to us as a society to set the trend of prioritizing health and overall well-being in order to show these big corporations that we’ll only spend for quality.

[@OXHAMMERSTONE_NYC]

I live near this neighborhood this story is completely false

[@avian_barrister]

A supermarket with produce is an 8 minute walk from East New York Farms. A neighborhood garden is fine, but let's not pretend that without it, there are no healthy options.

[@jonatopik]

Of all the places in USA that could legitimately be highlighted as barren voids of decent goods or opportunities, he chooses a tiny section of one of the most vibrant find-anything-under-the-sun cities on planet Earth lol

[@sittinonthegodamcornerdoindope]

Should’ve come to east Oakland CA. Baltimore, Memphis. Lots of cities with significant food deserts.

[@samanthaporter6662]

More community and backyard gardens is a cheap answer to the issue, the amount of food you can grow in a small space can go far. I have things growing everywhere in my yard in the middle of the city, enough to share lots with my neighbors!

[@terenarosa4790]

Not everyone is rich enough to have a yard.

[@themilkman9188]

@@terenarosa4790 Put them in pots then if you don't have space. Think outta the box if you want to solve your issues

[@boosted211]

"anyone who has ever struggled with poverty knows how extremely expensive it is to be poor." - james baldwin get some people together this summer and turn an unused lot in your city into a garden. at the very least grow what you can at home. i command you. 😁

[@punkgrl325]

All the unused lots here are concrete 🤣

[@boosted211]

@@punkgrl325 get some 🪣!! Im sure this probably isn't possible in most places since the lots are going to be owned by someone but could be worth looking into with the community.

[@kommisar.]

@@boosted211 The real problem is those lots would just get ransacked by the local criminals. The criminals are the real reason for why there are food deserts in the first place. Crime creates poverty, not the other way around.

[@boosted211]

@@kommisar. crime goes down when people's material conditions are met. Stop it.

[@kommisar.]

@@boosted211 Ha! That's complete bullshit. They've tried that dumb idea for decades now and the places with the highest welfare distribution have the highest crime rates. San Francisco spends billions on homelessness every year, including offering free housing, and their homeless population continues to grow. Giving people free stuff doesn't make them less criminal. That's just a dumb leftist myth to keep perpetuating the welfare state. Politicians refuse to admit they are useless when it comes to combating poverty.

[@ariefraiser140]

Just wait until the neighborhood gets gentrified. Then all of a sudden you'll get 2,3 national chains opening a store in that neighborhood. I saw this happen in DC.

[@rezajafari6395]

Great!

[@natashak2125]

Not necessarily all parts of ENY is gentrifiable. Is that a word?. Some spots in ENY like Starret are far from trains. You have to take a 15 min bus ride first to a train station then it'll be another 45 to the city on the train. So at least 1 hr away from the city and that's without waiting time. This doesn't carry much appeal to live in a spot that far from the city and a bit of a transportation desert.

[@ariefraiser140]

@@natashak2125 Trust me....There are parts of DC where I never thought would be gentrified for one reason or another. If there's value there they will find a way. It's not that hard for gentrifiers. Besides if your commute is 2 hours away, and you will be surprised how many people make 2+ hour commutes to work, a 1 hour commute starts looking very very appealing.

[@betrapvideos]

Yep a whole foods across the street of the projects in SE on the other side of Anacostia

[@kjohnson954]

@@ariefraiser140 Not a DC native but lived in the city for 5 + yrs now. What parts are you talking about in particular?

[@EduardoRamirez-si2oh]

“Healthi-er”

[@AhseemCarter]

Ik right

[@grod805]

Thats because everyone has different idea of what healthy is. KETO is healthy for some but others think its not

[@andrewhooper7603]

All lasting change is incremental, so I can't hold it against him. Yeah, a lot of that stuff is still processed more than is ideal, but I doubt you could forget about it for a decade and find it in the same state you left it.

[@GrantDWilliams82]

Wanna know why there's only fast food in these neighborhoods? You can't shop lift from fast food joints.

[@Dee-ye2dk]

Fam no offense, but a place like Whole Foods is based on income. No high end market place will open in a low income area, that’s basic knowledge. If residents want a grocery store they need to advocate it with their local council.

[@IceDragon-fj4vx]

You got the right idea but advocating with their local council won't do anything

[@Dee-ye2dk]

@@IceDragon-fj4vx it’s the step in the right direction, they approve the open of fast food businesses. Council can incentive grocery chains with tax deductions, it’s the only way

[@IceDragon-fj4vx]

@@Dee-ye2dk they don't do anything lol

[@Dee-ye2dk]

@@IceDragon-fj4vx then a grocery store isn’t going to open if the demographic can’t support it, that’s a dumb business move.

[@DonSuperbe]

NO, ITS BECAUSE OF RACISM! STOP THIS THINKING-THING RIGHT NOW!

[@bmw3-er]

Imho, foreign cuisine especially Asian cuisine, is a bang for your bucks for this case (if you don't want to cook by yourself) . A lot of spices and vegetables that taste good.

[@412fish]

Yes and a lot of the meals have a good meat/veg/carb balance without too much added fat.

[@XtarShoter]

Minorities should unite, but they dont

[@rachel.7598]

@@XtarShoter some of them, esp us younger ones, are :)

[@mjstecyk]

Indian and Ethiopian food both have a lot of very flavourful vegetarian (and vegan!) recipes as well. Lentils and beans are a great source of cheap protein.

[@412fish]

@@mjstecyk yes you're 100% right. Honestly almost any non- American and non-western European cuisine is going to be better for you.

[@funcisco]

I lived in a food desert for a year. The worst part for me wasn't only the quality of the foods, but being able to access the food to begin with. There was no public transportation and I didn't have a car, so for a year I would walk 30 mins to the store and walk back 30 mins carrying an ungodly number of bags, as much as I could in my hands and bag (and I had to cross two highways). I would usually do this twice a week because I couldn't carry much in one trip. Imagine doing that for a year, regardless of the weather. Ultimately, it was one of the reasons I moved (but mainly bc landlady was terrible). Edit: This was greater Boston in 2020.

[@shaunigothictv1003]

Excellent pointz

[@aigcfabio]

Ciò significa che negli Stati Uniti se uno si trova a dover vivere per causa fi forza maggiore in uno di questi così detti deserti alimentari e non ha la disponibilità di un mezzo di trasporto si ritrova escluso dal potere mangiare alimenti freschi e salutari ed è quindi letteralmente condannato a nutrirsi di cibo spazzatura? La cosa al solo pensiero mi inquieta non poco. Deduco quindi che io che sono siciliano devo reputarmi fortunatissimo a vivere in un isola che è un paradiso alimentare, dove ortaggi, frutta e verdura sono reperibili ad ogni angolo di un centro abitato. Non capisco comunque come in America non vi sia un reale atteggiamento rivolto al reale cambiamento in questo ambito da parte della classe politica dirigente . Qualcuno me lo spiegherebbe? Saluti.

[@ezra5514]

​@@aigcfabiocorporations like McDonald's and other fast food places have more power than the law or politicians

[@lazarus8018]

​@@aigcfabioBecause the junk food industry makes more money when people are desperate

[@grapeflavouredmouthwash.2909]

'You work on the farm, you a slave' I'm dead😂😂😂🤣🤣

[@debbiemarquis3231]

Poor level of education

[@marriejames01]

Not funny, just pure ignorance. But as you see he said some wanted to work with him. Clearly they were ignorant and became jealous of the opportunity.

[@lateblossom]

I'm a 33 year old white female and I can totally relate to this. That healthy food is so expensive. I support everyone shown here for wanting to make a difference, especially for those who don't have better options.

[@luciannebeans6679]

I feel you. Organic produce in my city is SO pricey and it's heartbreaking.

[@boosted211]

@@luciannebeans6679 and a lot of times the quality doesnt seem any better. ive gone to some city "farm" stands and they just have supermarket food at a higher price. stickers on it same as the store. cities need better food they can afford.

[@MaggotMuseum]

It doesn't have to be expensive. I try to eat mostly plant-based and my grocery bill is inexpensive because of it. Not only did I lose 25 pounds, I saved a ton of money.

[@aesyamazeli8804]

Every food is healthy if you don't drown them in sugar and oil. Eat a roasted chicken everyday and you'll be fine.

[@russellpearce3749]

Beans, potatoes, rice there are plenty of healthy foods that are not expensive. The problem with them is you have to cook them. They're not fun they're not fast if people want to eat healthy they can and it's not that expensive. They just want the expensive stuff they can't afford and they're complaining about that

[@alan-zl7ee]

Jay z rather create alcohol empire then create healthy choice for his people!!🤭

[@TheHomesteadingHistorian]

Would a healthy choice be profitable for him?

[@july9566]

Ain't no money in good health

[@supermodelatlanta1354]

You can take the boi out the hood. But not the hood out the Boi

[@liggmabawls5634]

@@july9566 yea there is gym industry boomin

[@MariahBunni]

The black celebrities who don’t give back to their communities are such disappointments.

[@HandlewithcareVibes]

Our body is our temple ❤️💛💚

[@Bebedollie]

Amen

[@JWB86]

Sometimes it's okay to wear shoes inside 😉

[@DirtyBeatzMusic]

how do they stop all the looting, theft, and flash mobs? it's my understanding that this is why businesses leave

[@mershgersh5239]

My mom always kept a garden to supplement our veggie and fruits, the closest grocery store to us was Save-a-lot and their produce was gnar gnar. The first time I ever saw a whole foods was when I moved to Washington.

[@maxgorden499]

If anything this is an opportunity, clearly there's a void in the market, maybe they could start a black-owned business.

[@neeneko]

@@Jaylaflare1017 yep, that is the core problem. you run into the same basic problem with minority hiring.. people assume that if an opportunity exists the market will reward those who go after it, but the actual market is such a small part of the equation... with funding and support are two other big ones.

[@madhouse8301]

@@Jaylaflare1017 Would a co-op work?

[@miguelabrego1079]

There are plenty of black millionaires who are from these places but they either choose not to help or don't care to. No real sense of community in black neighborhoods. Americans are very individualistic instead of collectivists. I see asian and hispanic markets all the time offering fresh meat and produce in their respective neighborhoods so if they can do it I don't see why they can't do it in black neighborhoods as well.

[@yungmentalproblems]

@@miguelabrego1079 it's the systemic systems of institutionalized structural racisms doe

[@miguelabrego1079]

@@yungmentalproblems so institutional racism only affects black people and no other minority besides black people are marginalized since other minority populations can set up their own local fresh food markets for their neighborhoods. Got it.

[@zjones9876]

Have you considered that maybe due to theft and crime they cannot operate profitably?

[@davidz2808]

At 0:30, he drives past a grocery store as he claims that there aren't any in the area.

[@dii-N-sd]

Oftentimes, the quality of the produce in those stores is so bad.

[@clubpenLily55555]

He said, "Whole Foods, you don't see them here." That's not a Whole Foods, and he never claimed that there weren't ANY in the area, he just said that there aren't MANY. And like the comment above me said, yeah, there are grocery stores, but a lot of the time the quality of produce and protein is terrible.

[@meepmoop2308]

Some grocery stores are so bad they dont even deserve to be called grocery stores. Wilted greens and mushy apples. Ugh.

[@silvermediastudio]

@@dii-N-sd Oftentimes, professional victims like yourself and those in the video, make constant excuses that have zero basis in reality.

[@silvermediastudio]

@@meepmoop2308 Eat carnivore diet then.

[@C-Handle]

Eating healthy doesn't cost a lot. Eating organic might, but general natural food is affordable. People are just addicted to MSG and the convenience of fast food.

[@jermainburnett8594]

True

[@jordiblu2131]

Um can we get this Brain Food place in the UK!? 😍 amazing idea, it’s Maccy prices wtf

[@bruhmann719]

innit

[@bruhmann719]

and more community farms like the one in this video

[@vtdemocracy7520]

They’re not being totally honest about their food prices. Most of their options are $10+.

[@Kelz_X]

I always thought that I was overweight because of food deserts/ lack of recreational sports option growing up (I don’t play b-ball/football/run track etc.) among other elements. Now that I’m older & cognizant of what contributed to it, I actively seek physical activity (as simple as walking daily)/making healthier food choices/decisions. I’m UN-learning what I was taught and learning new behaviors. Food deserts are definitely a contribution to it for many. Shout out to my *BUGS* (Black Urban Growers)

[@neileapenninan8706]

Bro I'm from India, eating fast food every day sounds WILD to me, its supposed to be a treat. Like my friend's mom once punished him for asking for pepsi by buying him 2 full 2 liter pepsi bottles and made him drink it all at once with nothing else for the rest of the day......like for us thats a punishment

[@TheLazyass111]

I was raised in a poor latin family, I ate a lot of fried and fatty foods, even though they were home made. I really wish my family was more educated about health. I didnt think about my weight until I was 21. but now im 291lbs. When I come back home from uni, I want to start going to the gym and eating better.

[@neileapenninan8706]

@@TheLazyass111 Not a food expert but here's an suggestion, like try asking your grandma or something what traditional latin meals look like, cause if you don't know much about what food to eat eating a bunch of mismatched "Healthy" diets might have a negative impact. So you could try and stick with some traditional stuff that's known to be good. :)

[@amordelacruz6572]

P̳r̳e̳m̳i̳u̳m̳ ̳P̳r̳i̳v̳a̳t̳e̳ ̳S̳e̳x̳💯 𝘾𝙡𝙞𝙘𝙠𝙃𝙚𝙧𝙚⏩ livegirls19. com ⏪ !♥今後は気をライブ配信の再編ありがとうです！この日のライブ配信は、かならりやばかったですね！１万人を超える人が見ていたもん（笑）やっぱり人参最高！まさかのカメラ切り忘れでやら1かしたのもドキドキでした, 1617642394

[@maximilian9295]

I lived in a black community, im hispanic. We had a sprouts and trader joes. I'd shop only there but I only saw white people in both. But the dollar stores and discount grocery stores were where the black and hispanic people were. For years, until more junk came in and we lost sprouts. Maybe some people think they don't belong in "those" stores? Or assume they're expensive when they're not. But its not Sprouts fault, so why would companies take risks and open in neighborhoods where they won't make profits. Its awful but makes sense.

[@jamalrobinson2704]

It's true though

[@drewkline96]

We need more urban farms that have regenrative practices. This could revolutionize urban diets and help young people understand how food is grown

[@itsjasleendiva278]

In America, you poor, you done for.🙏

[@kimhg4994]

It's easy to make money in America

[@suaveosami]

@Uncle Grandpa yeah You’re not done if you’re poor I know plenty of people who’ve made it out of poverty

[@suaveosami]

@@kimhg4994 it is easier than almost any other country tbh that’s why people come here

[@elpencil2920]

Outside of Europe that’s the case in the rest of the world

[@jaketoffen2454]

Only in America could you find a way to earn a healthy buck and still keep your attitude on self destruct.

[@Hashslingingslasher-]

Idk about murica but mc donalds here is way more expensive than a bag of carrots or canned foods from the supermarket

[@brynna77]

I’d say the same for US, depends what you’re getting though. In places w food deserts it’s more about access though, which is why these up and coming healthy businesses are so important.

[@leansnscenes7806]

@@brynna77 you could grow eggplant in your balcony

[@tulipsarevil4211]

in the USA, there’s a beef incentive so the government is stimulating cheaper GMO farming, meaning big mac costs like $4 alone or $6 for a meal in the states but up here in Canada it’s almost double the price because our government isn’t giving tax money to farmers!

[@aspiringdad5040]

@@tulipsarevil4211 We have a lot of subsidies for farmers but that isn't all good. Their lobby fucks up a lot of stuff. They protest the reintroduction of predators, aid in the introduction of invasive species, fight against food and meat regulation and in some cases are basically owned by megacorporations through debt and loans. It's brutal.

[@omar9268]

where do you live ?

[@np2679]

this guy's voice is GOLD

[@murrayisarobot]

Was coming down to comment the same. Sounds like Gil Scott-Heron.

[@rexyzvent5864]

That farm is amazing. & the 5 dollar meal prep is great. I honestly hope I do something for my community one day like these people.

[@dobbs5860]

Really interesting! So happy people are taking action on this, I am definitely going to research this topic.

[@gozjoka5339]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/opeToH2hbdOhn9mu

[@BF2shaun37]

Okay, now I'm lost - The journalist initially says that the lack of supermarkets cannot be explained away by income, and that 'racism' is the objective reason (even though Supermarkets would leave a neighbourhood in response to a 'white flight' to follow the money) - then the lady interviewed *literally says* fresh food and produce is viewed/stigmatized as expensive and 'white' and undesirable .. are you saying white people stigmatized healthy food deliberately in black communities? Income is a massive influence wrt general lifestyle & health

[@Germania9]

Well, duh. That's what actually happened.

[@BF2shaun37]

@@Germania9 That isn't an argument :P If it is explicitly the result of racist intent (which doesn't seem to be proven here) then you'd need to explain the identical issue in equally poor white communities.

[@davidjoelsson4929]

@@Germania9 you sheep

[@davidjoelsson4929]

@YoungD3mon314 geography wise? You do know white countries in europe is one of the worst places to grow food

[@BF2shaun37]

​@YoungD3mon314 Yeah that I can understand, and is more in line with my underlying views on the issue - while I do believe institutional/system racism and sexism were, and in some cases still are, issues - I don't believe that every disparity is simply manifestation of outright intent

[@asg102]

I don’t see the racism. Anyone can open that type of business in that area.

[@FreyaCo]

Vice should link the Cookbook of the farm in the description or comments. I’d love to buy a copy!

[@luigipirate8116]

Brain food meals are 12 dollar and up they literally lie in camera saying that meal is 6 dollar's

[@fadesola2002]

that owner seemed sus and like he was lying

[@1nifier]

He clearly meant with 5 bucks you can get a meal but not all meals priced the same. If you’re fixing to get a meal extra and a soda then expect to pay.

[@IHateMyAccountName]

And that's 12 dollar menu burgers.

[@desmond-hawkins]

@@1nifier Yes, this. Their instagram shows $5 breakfast bowls, but it's true that most of their options are $10-$12. He didn't say everything is$5 though, and how do you expect a company to survive on $5 meals? After ingredients, labor, and rent your profit is like minus $3.

[@GriffinGrandiose]

​@@desmond-hawkins now that 'I grew up in the hood, I'm not gonna forget about them' comment makes more sense. he has options at a price point that makes it more available catering to the needs of the lower income group, while also catering to middle and upper income groups with a full menu that has higher price points to help it be able to stay afloat, which means it only is viable in a gentrified or gentrifying community.

[@SisterSunshineTV]

What is the crime rate there? Stores can’t stay if they get robbed and shop lifted

[@austinmejia3210]

True

[@erikrennspiess2829]

@3:15 when someone is being "sustainable" but pulling up in their 8 cylinder BMW shes completely correct

[@nikki5095]

Brain Food looks amazing! What a brilliant transition.

[@drkimoni5011]

YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT BROOKLYN ! THERE A SUPERMARKET STORE RIGHT THERE ON ASHFORD AND LINDEN ! STOP IT THIS AINT DOWN SOUTH

[@ieatass4226]

It seems they forgot we have google maps

[@OXHAMMERSTONE_NYC]

Bro I'm literally here wonder wtf is going, gateway mall with BJ's is right there ! I live close by, this story is such bullshit.

[@drkimoni5011]

@@OXHAMMERSTONE_NYC he think New York city is down SOUTH! Fake news

[@gengiz80]

You must have skipped the whole video because it stated there are more unhealthy choices than healthy choices they did not state there were no supermarkets.

[@grega3611]

We’re talking about pretty big cities aren’t we. Per Capita there’s probably less grocery stores in the inner city than the suburbs.

[@CCRob720]

I would love to see her bring in a local vertical gardens to bring in massive amount of fresh foods and bring down prices.

[@gozjoka5339]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/opeToH2hbdOhn9mu

[@jonatopik]

Agreed

[@33mavboy]

Vertical farming is very expensive, especially for small time growers

[@AhseemCarter]

Farming is not cheap, I live on a farm myself. A lot of things that go into and the cost to do it just stacks up.

[@moaden9553]

It’s kinda ironic that in less developed countries fast food is actually expensive luxury and fresh food the main option

[@Sovnarkom]

The best places to eat in the hood are the ones owned by so-called “A-rabs”. Cucumber salad, hummus, baba ganoush, falafel, samosas ... etc

[@ghhhffbbnnn6567]

“so called arabs”?

[@ghhhffbbnnn6567]

“A-rabs”? why not Arabs

[@Sovnarkom]

@@ghhhffbbnnn6567 There is an enthusiasm for ignorance in some of these communities. The term is often knowingly mispronounced.

[@juniperabbott2614]

My favorite foods!

[@tejbirsingh5661]

Great video! Very important to report on this issue. Healthy food is so important and worth the effort, the struggle, the dedication. I'm proud of these farmers and business owners who are making this happen.

[@powsniffer0110]

I understand it's the system, and the system is hard to change, when they have all the money, all the resources, ect. ect. So on so on... But my question is why haven't any black entrepreneurs, or just even ANY wealthy African-Americans, invested back into their communities, or where they grew up, to open grocery stores, healthier food options, healthier/healthy-ish fast food restaurants?! It would not only solve the problem at hand, but ALSO MAKE THEM MONEY! It wouldn't be just draining/costing money, but could actually add to their bottom line, AND help their communities/neighborhoods! I'm just confused why more blacks haven't invested back into the poor areas they came from.

[@rodniestruiken1256]

I was wondering the same thing. What i don't understand is as African decendent. We know how to work the land to grow are own crops. You can keep live chickens to have fres meat. African decendent have become so white in there dealing whit the world tgey forgot where they came from. The lessons and skills of there ancestors.

[@samsamantha4121]

Theft! They skipped this part!

[@BizzeeB]

I lived in the neighborhood that Brain Food is in 15 years ago, when it was not gentrified at all, and I have/had the same hope for that community. I think the young kid working in the kitchen alluded to part of the reason why this is not happening more when he said his friends make fun of him for working there. In a lot of communities, being healthy isn't "cool". Trying to implement slow, sustainable, positive change in the community isn't "cool". When your city/state/country don't look out for you, you have to look out for yourself. And most often, that means making fast money any way possible, and then showing that money off to the rest of the community. (it's really an American problem on a macro level, too, which is why we lead the world in personal debt - you gotta flaunt it even if you DON'T have it).

[@rodniestruiken1256]

@@Jaylaflare1017 i know. but its a start. It would be interested to see how thet adres the housing probleem. To build better neighbourhoods for black people.

[@mikomikasa3958]

You have to consider that starting a business often requires a loan, if requires someone to invest in your business plan if you dont have a lot of startup capital to lease a location, buy supplies, etc. If no one thinks it's a good business plan (which many dumb people would think, that people in the hood won't buy or consume these types of food or that there's no profit in selling it to them at reasonable prices they can afford) no one will fund you. There's a lot of other hurdles to overcome, too, that's just one big one.

[@ALuckyDonkey]

Azlo is a top tier individual and an awesome correspondent. I really enjoy the topics he covers, as much as I miss his stand up

[@ye23.]

Where is he from

[@cheeseflavoredsoda3262]

There are no stores in black communities because the moment one opens up it gets robbed, torched and destroyed. You do this to yourself.

[@IKEMENOsakaman]

Farmers markets are always in places of rich neighborhoods, such as Williamsburgh and mid-Manhattan. We need to have them in these places too.

[@alexill]

Yea the farmers’ markets will charge you 6 dollars for a pint of strawberries. Or 5 dollars for a dozen eggs. No thanks.

[@pest174]

Not true. I live in Queens, and I'm walking distance to several farmers markets.

[@powsniffer0110]

Agreed but it's up to the community to set those up. The people need to want it and stand up and speak out 🗣️ what they want!

[@Kimberly-wt1nu]

I’m in Hartford CT and there’s one near by

[@maxgorden499]

Farmers markets are over priced, smaller operation, higher cost by product compared to lets say Walmart which can mass produce/obtain vegetables. It doesn't isnt profitable to have a high cost option in an area that can't afford it.

[@yurigadaisukida4457]

so i fact checked this video and found 5 grocery stores within walking distance of the burger king at the start... WTH

[@silvermediastudio]

He drives right past one at 0:30 called Cherry Valley. It's all propaganda.

[@Mojoblitz]

3:17 "Healthy food is always stigmatized to be a white thing" what?

[@DW_25]

I think it's is way more about socio-economic status than race, it's not because they're black or brown or whatever, but they're being discriminated against because they're poor

[@cmendoza1094]

It's slowly becoming , but still mostly minority communities right now.

[@CommanderWar64]

I think it’s a mix of issues. There’s not one thing you can point to and be like, “ITS THAT!” So most likely it’s a little bit of racism, classism, poverty, etc...

[@SpacedudeGFX]

very refreshing to hear. It's not the white man bringing you down, its the rich man.

[@rebelgusanos]

Think in terms of clicks and shares like a Vice journalist. If it's not the racism explanation it won't create outrage and won't go viral.

[@pbfoley]

If you did a statistical analysis of all the variables leading to food deserts and scarcity, I would argue race is a statistically insignificant variable.

[@claybyrd4943]

If you open up stores like Whole Foods or Aldi's in some of these neighborhoods they rob them this exact thing just happened in Chicago and Tennessee and the stores closed due to the constant thievery , this not only hurt the neighborhood but those that found work in the store

[@davecullins1606]

In my country, it's reverse: Unhealthy stuff is expensive, healthy stuff is cheap and boring.

[@suziscool]

'you're not afraid of that"? "I'M JAMAICAN" 😁

[@sikay6340]

I was an urban planning and development major at UCSD. Which entails city planning, transpo, public health, ethnic studies etc. there is a direct correlation between income and health disparities in the United States. Obviously when the Coronavirus hit this woke many people up to this. As far as food deserts, this has been an ongoing real epidemic in urban communities for decades contributing to higher rates of heart disease, obesity, diabetes. Community gardens have been attempting to combat this, providing fresh produce to neighborhoods where there are no grocery stores for miles. Affordable REAL healthier food options shouldn’t be a privilege but a given for all people, especially those living in one of the wealthiest countries.

[@ChippyGo]

Literally just cook! It’s not racist it’s just we black ppl like junk foodS. We got bigger problems that food ppl

[@alohaazzie8462]

We do have bigger problems, like health. And when you’re eating fast food because you don’t have access to supermarkets to make better food, your health will decline and you are more susceptible to hypertension, diabetes and obesity. I don’t know how you’re saying we Black people like junk food. I didn’t like junk food, but it was all I had growing up in Detroit where there were only junk food in the area and no supermarkets

[@jashanestone]

*"Try To Eat Healthy In A Food Desert"* Me in my head: "about time someone start talkin about these truck stops. Have anyone seen Middle America? Fast food spots everywhere, no healthier alternatives." After watching video: 😳🤔 I lived in Brooklyn New York almost my entire life. I've also drove across the country as a truck driver for four years. I then became a vegan for 4 years. I am now a pescatarian 🐟 as of this year.. I could not have been able to be a vegan in any other Borough outside of Manhattan. Brooklyn for many years, thanks to our Jamaican brothers and sisters, have had vegan and vegetarian options for many years.. Washington Avenue in Crown Heights, up and down, in between Atlantic & Eastern Parkway alone has great vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Brooklyn. As was said, *people just don't care to eat healthy all together just yet.*

[@queenzena]

Congrats, YOU educated yourself and became vegan. Yeah, some people are going to do what they want, but when the education system doesn't teach better options, most people won't know. Healthy food has been stigmatized as "white food" to some communities. More people are learning they don't have to eat fast food all the time. I'm also taking a guess you hang out with a diverse group of associates. Some don't. They're just hoping they don't get shot by their peers or the cops that day. Lastly, food allergies exist and not everyone can go strictly vegan.

[@enkay.1209]

Wow, that's really great for you and awesome to hear 👏 My late cousin was a long haul truck driver for many years, sadly the lifestyle and heavy fast food diet took a toll his health - he passed a couple of years ago due to a heart attack (he struggled on & off with being overweight, also had high blood pressure and high cholesterol.) He was only about 40 years old at the time. What so sadly ironic is that my cousin spent the first twenty years or so of his life eating primarily a home cooked, vegetarian diet (occasional poultry or eggs), which was mostly organic and low in processed foods. He grew up middle class in rural India, so it was basically the main diet option people in that time/place had. But once he immigrated here as an adult and started working, his diet & lifestyle did a complete 180.

[@omg-kb8oc]

I didn’t grow up rich. my parents lived under a shopping center before I was born, I was raised in a trailer park. my parents REFUSED to buy me junk food and fast food growing up. my mom always made home made meals for me. we barely ate canned foods, no frozen foods unless it was cuts of meats that we froze to preserve. it’s most definitely possible to eat healthy while poor. my mom had a small garden my dad built where she grew tomatoes and lettuce. if you have space for a garden it will help. you can even grow some veggies, fruits and herbs indoors

[@coriethomas7188]

This is so motivating for me

[@SUPPORTYOURSELF]

DEAD PREZ (music group) have been promoting a healthier lifestyle since the mid to late 90's

[@AutumnKat2119]

I love the interviewer's attitude so up beat and funny!😁❤The brain food guy also has an amazing idea and makes the best jokes!😂❤

[@DarthFurie]

Wow, never thought I'd see East New York on here. I used to work at a middle school in that neighborhood and in 2014-2015 I got to take an after school program to a community farm a few times to tend to plants and hold chickens. We had so much fun. Glad to see community farms still thriving in the area.

[@starcherry6814]

I'm from Flint We don't even have a grocery store here, just corner stores and dollar trees

[@destressfrlyf843]

& dirty water, still So sorry for my Fam

[@MatthewFrazierr]

I googled how many stores are in flint Michigan....plenty 😬

[@destressfrlyf843]

@@MatthewFrazierr Try visiting the areas about which the writer has spoken

[@starcherry6814]

@@MatthewFrazierr Yes google will show you plenty of *convenience* stores. The only stores we have here that could pass as grocery stores would be Save A lot or Mr B's but there's rats and cockroaches in the aisles. The meat is rotten or expiring And the fruits and vegetables are also rotting but more expensive than Kroger or Meijer Not to mention the number of processed foods like sodas, chips and cakes FAR outweighs the amount of fresh food. To get to Kroger or Meijer you have to drive 15-20mins out of town, it's not practical for people that don't have the gas money or take public transportation. Most people in Flint are poor. We do have a Farmer's market downtown open once a week but unfortunately most Flint natives don't buy from there because they can't afford it. It's usually people from neighbouring cities that shop there.

[@starcherry6814]

@@destressfrlyf843 Idk why people think someone would lie about being from Flint. It's not a glamorous place and it's a well known fact that we've been struggling Even Obama said himself years ago during the water crisis how sad it was we didn't have a grocery store. Kamala Harris said it too similarly a couple years later when she was talking about Flint.

[@punkgrl325]

Damn, reminds me of my neighborhood. I'm in Jamaica, Queens. No Whole Foods or anything like that, just bodegas and hood supermarkets like Associated and Key Food. Meanwhile, for every supermarket, there's like six fast food joints. Brain Food needs to come here lol

[@Irishtradchannel]

Hopefully his business will not be looted and burnt the next time a junkie is killed trying to murder someone.

[@BoomDoop]

Another factor to keep in mind is location. I grew up in a small town in the southwest where it's littered with fast food places and the only two grocery stores were a bargain place that sold cheap processed junk and the other was a high-end chain that was so expensive for the community that it went out of business. (Basically a literal food desert) It's really tough to even consider eating healthy there when the nearest good grocery is 25 miles away and the climate is too dry/hot to grow stuff yourself. The city isn't easy either, but I feel like small rural areas can get trapped by big cheap chains since they know you don't really have anywhere else to go and they're the best option available. It's also fair to consider how hard it's going to be to detox a lot of people's systems from all that crap since they're literally made to be addictive to a certain level. Speaking from my own experience, when I finally moved to the city for school I struggled hard to not fall into a lot of bad eating habits I learned growing up just because it was all I knew and my body at that point craved all that junk. I still struggle with it now after a few years but it's thankfully not as bad as back in the day. Along with making cheaper, but still healthier, alternatives for people I think we should put some effort into educating people how healthier alternatives can still be delectable. We should also obviously either regulate how much big food chains can market to and gridlock communities from those healthier options.

[@TNmike0309]

Everyone deserves a healthy nourished meal! Praying that all who are hungry are fed. 🙏🏿🍽🍴

[@del.see.oh.89]

I live in a Hispanic neighborhood in Manhattan. There's demand for our traditional foods. That's why we're not a "food desert". That's why our supermarkets and grocery stores are all full of fresh produce. Yeah, there's a McDonald's and Burger King. There's a Taco Bell and all that other crap but we also have a like 7 supermarkets that I can count within 20 blocks that have healthy choices. We have vegan restaurants. We have ethnic restaurants from mad countries. It's not all McDonald's and 2 for $3 combos. All the bodegas have salads at least. It's not a race issue in East NY. It's a demand issue.

[@barefeg]

Exactly my point. You can try educate people on these choices but you can’t force good full on people. Otherwise we’ll see a video on hipsters tryna push their organic expensive stuff on blacks

[@melo7038]

You aren't a food desert because despite the hispanic communities often being low income, they aren't crime ridden ghettos where the shops have to be covered in plexi glass windows and the staff get grief daily.

[@wickedsin6225]

If somebody opened up a grocery store there it would be getting robbed daily.. just a side note

[@markprice8320]

Does anyone know the song playing in the background at 3:00 mark?? Pls and thank you!

[@babindinda9414]

This is an awesome coverage, and I would love to see more areas utilizing such ideas, and it would be awesome if VICE and other media sources could highlight other areas in the country like this! Awesome work!

[@deuscoromat742]

It's like building housing projects in active volcanos because you noticed none of them have any houses. It's business suicide.

[@silvermediastudio]

0:30 there's a grocery store, this is all propaganda and you fell for it.

[@rc4443]

I live in this area. She's absolutely right. Nothing in the area is healthy and finding healthy fresh food is extreemely expensive

[@enkay.1209]

Just curious, do you feel in your area residents would benefit from or respond well to something like a weekend food market (set up in an empty lot or rented building) or biweekly food truck service that sells/delivers a healthy variety of frozen produce or meal kit items & dry/canned goods? I know community gardens & fresh produce farmers markets are ideal & helpful alternatives in some places, but not always realistic depending on the season/climate or other restrictions of the area.

[@russellpearce3749]

All fast food places offer healthy alternatives. However if you want more choices stop vandalizing and shoplifting the stores that would come in there and provide them for you

[@silvermediastudio]

0:30 there's a grocery store, Cherry Valley, you saying there's nothing good there?

[@itspricila]

$5 is a great price for a healthy meal

[@elliefugerer3409]

I would KILL to have a place where I could get a healthy meal for $5.

[@a.s8003]

Easy, us latinos got it down. Some beans, super cheap, some rice which is also super cheap, get a can of tomatoes, one onion, some of garlic and other spices you like and make a nice sauce, then simmer the beans in it. Put a little bit of meat cooking with the beans and sauce (can even be leftover bits of meat), all done just serve it with the rice and boom, that's a nice hearty healthy meal under 5$,

[@A.Rare.Sapphire.]

Us Caribbean people are soooo blessed we don't even know it! Thanks for this😊

[@blicce9597]

So lots of fast food in East NY= systemic racism. Makes allot of sense. I love identity politics. 🙌🏼

[@maplemaple1439]

Lots of fast food means the local population can't eat as healthy without shelling out extra money

[@blicce9597]

@@maplemaple1439 You have to shell out extra money to eat healthy regardless of where you live. If you want to eat healthy take yo ass to the grocery store. Doesn’t matter if there is only a few grocery stores. If you want to eat healthy you will eat healthy. If you want to feed you and your family for $20 at Popeyes you will do just that.... stop playing identity politics.... do you hear what’s being said? Lots of fast food restaurants in a broken neighborhood = systemic racism. Like come on.

[@korydowell965]

It's never a race thing, it's a wealth thing

[@shzarmai]

Food Deserts and Poverty should be rare if not Nonexistent* in the world's (supposedly) richest country smh....there shouls be more available food and food forests in urban areas in America.

[@destressfrlyf843]

It shouldn't be so hard for us to get healthy food, but their grind for the well-being of those around them is . . . That's Wazzup

[@OXHAMMERSTONE_NYC]

This story is false, I live near by.