Tag: Us food supply

According to a September 2024 USDA report, 13.5% of US households experienced food insecurity in 2023, a significant increase from the previous year. This statistic raises an important question for many: is the US in a food crisis, or are these challenges a sign of persistent, systemic vulnerabilities? The answer is nuanced, involving more than just simple supply shortages.

According to a 2021 investigation by *The Guardian*, for 85% of groceries analyzed across the United States, four firms or fewer controlled more than 40% of the market share. This stark statistic reveals a market where consumer choice is heavily concentrated among a small number of powerful companies.

According to estimates from the Grocery Manufacturers Association and others, approximately 75% to 80% of conventional processed foods in the United States contain ingredients derived from genetically modified (GM) crops. This high prevalence is largely due to the extensive use of major commodity crops like corn and soybeans in various food products.

According to the USDA, the United States is one of the world's largest producers of soybeans, which explains much of the prevalence of soy in the American diet. So, why does the US put soy in everything, from vegetable oil to food additives like soy lecithin? The answer lies in a combination of factors, including its low cost, incredible versatility, and functional properties in processed foods.

Estimates from multiple sources, including the Grocery Manufacturers Association, suggest that between 70% and 80% of processed foods sold in the U.S. contain genetically modified (GMO) ingredients. This high prevalence is largely due to the widespread use of bioengineered crops like corn, soybeans, and canola, which are used to create common additives and derivatives in many packaged foods. Understanding **what percentage of processed foods are GMO in the US** can help consumers make informed dietary choices.