Obesity is an ever-growing epidemic in the United States. Weights have been rising in the United States throughout the twentieth century, but the rise in obesity since 1980 is fundamentally different from past changes. (Cutler, Glaeser and Shapiro) Though it is not entirely clear what is to blame many scientists and researchers have a theory. The rise of obesity in the U.S. can be contributed to high priced fruits and vegetables, low costing processed foods, widespread increase in poverty, and a sedentary lifestyle.
The cost to eat healthy is the first main contributor in obesity. The index for fresh fruits fell 1.7 percent, and the fresh vegetables index declined 3.2 percent. (Bureau of Labor Statistics) Though the research of the Bureau of Labor Statics consumers are not willing to spend money on
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Processed foods are those that manufactured at a high rate using artificial substances and ingredients. The average meal at a local hamburger establishment cost approximately $3 plus tax, considering a plain cheeseburger cost $1, add a large drink and fries for just $2 more at any local McDonald’s. Consumers are more like to purchase a $3 meal or $1.49 chicken nuggets then buy a $5-$7 salad from the local deli. Research by Harvard School of Public Health said, “On average, a day's worth of the healthiest diet patterns cost about $1.50 more per day than the least healthy ones.” (“Harvard School of Public Health”6) In addition to restaurants having low prices, consumers may look to get their high doses of glucose and fat from shelves in convenient stores. For example, a bag of chips cost $1, but yet a healthier snack such as a cup of yogurt ranges from $1.19-$1.99. The price difference is not much but after an extended period of time consumers will have to start considering their budget. Processed foods may be inexpensive but in the long run detrimental to consumers’