Tag: Cost of eating healthy

According to a 2024 study, healthy food is more than twice as expensive per calorie as less healthy options on a national scale, but this price gap varies significantly by location. Analyzing how much more expensive is healthy food in every state reveals a complex landscape of factors influencing food costs and nutritional choices. This regional variance is shaped by transportation costs, local economies, and retail competition, creating unique challenges for consumers across the U.S.

According to The Food Foundation, a basket of healthy food can cost more than double less healthy options. This significant price gap is a major barrier for many people and begs the question: why are healthy foods often more expensive? The reasons are complex, involving everything from farming practices to market dynamics and consumer demand.

According to a 2025 BBC analysis, a basket of healthy food can cost more than double a less healthy one when measured purely on a per-calorie basis. This report highlights a long-standing debate: **What's cheaper, healthy or unhealthy food?** While the immediate sticker price might seem to favor junk food, a comprehensive look at the issue reveals a more complex reality.