Activists who want to solve the problem of "food deserts" in underserved areas push for co-ops and and independent grocery stores. But would large chains like WalMart be a better solution?
Non-profit and activist groups that are trying to assist neighborhoods with little access to healthy foods and produce often advocate for small, independently-owned groceries.
But as Stephanie Ogbert reports in Grist:
"Research and focus groups completed by Hesterman's Fair Food Network, the Oakland research group PolicyLink, and academics like sociologist Alkon, however, show that many residents of low-income neighborhoods do not yet use the alternative venues offered by food justice groups. These residents also say they want what most people already have easy access to -- a full-service grocery store in their neighborhood that would offer a wide range of products for one-stop shopping."
Read the full story: Would a Walmart solve West Oakland's and Nashville's food problems?
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