Concern about the cost of a healthy diet being out of reach remains on the minds of many Americans, including Oklahoma farmers and ranchers, as the nation continues to work through serious economic woes. However, according to an Agriculture Department study, the cost of eating healthy hasn’t changed as much as some less-healthy alternatives.
Farm Bureau’s Food Check-Out Week, Feb. 20-26, focuses on helping Americans learn how to stretch their grocery dollars with healthy, nutritious food. Farmers and ranchers are committed to producing safe, healthy and abundant food. And they share a common concern with consumers when it comes to putting nutritious meals on the table while sticking to a tight budget.
To raise awareness of Food Check-Out Week, the Oklahoma Farm Bureau Women’s Committee is donating $1,000 worth of groceries to the Ronald McDonald Houses in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
“We want to recognize the need everyone has to find solutions to feeding families healthful foods on a tight budget,” said Kitty Beavers, women’s committee chairperson. “This is especially important when you’re faced with the crisis of an ill child.”
The Ronald McDonald House provides a “home-away-from-home” for families of seriously ill children receiving medical treatment. The donated food will be used to help feed families staying at the house.
A recent USDA report favorably supports the economics of healthier eating. A review of food price data show prices for unprepared, readily available fresh fruits and vegetables have remained stable relative to dessert and snack foods, such as chips, ice cream and cola. Therefore, as defined by foods in the study, the price of a “healthier” diet has not changed compared to an “unhealthy” diet.
“Eating healthy food while on a budget does require strategic shopping,” Beavers said.
Farm Bureau’s Food Check-Out Week is aimed at helping American consumers learn how to shop strategically to put nutritious meals on the table with fewer dollars.
“Learning to use your grocery dollars wisely helps ensure that nutrition isn’t neglected,” Beavers said.
Farm Bureau has developed educational materials dedicated to helping consumers make healthier food purchases. Information on several topics including “Tips for Better Nutrition on a Tight Budget,” “How Much Should I Eat?,” “Understanding Food Labels,” and “Understanding What MyPyramid Means” is available.
