Date of Award
3-2018
Degree Type
Research Paper
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Community Development and Planning (CDP)
Department
International Development, Community and Environment
Chief Instructor
Dr. Ramon Borges-Mendez
Second Reader
Dr. Yelena Ogneva-Himmelberger
Keywords
food insecurity, diabetes, coronary heart disease, food justice, food sovereignty, agribusiness
Abstract
The following research paper begins with an acknowledgement of the global food crisis and, more specifically, the agribusiness model of food production and distribution in the United States. It then zeroes in on the fundamental issues with many of the United States food movements. It then outlines a narrative with the frame that food security is a human right by elucidating concepts of food justice and food sovereignty. Once this foundation has been laid, the paper examines chronic food-related ailments (diabetes and coronary heart disease) in Worcester, Massachusetts, and how these ailments are related to racial/ethnic minorities (Black and Hispanic/Latino populations) and median household income. Through an analysis of both the existing literature and the spatial patterns evident in the city of Worcester, MA, this paper aims to understand the components of food insecurity and how they are related to chronic diseases in Worcester, MA. Finally, this paper builds upon the theoretical foundation for structural change by offering models of initiatives which could be implemented in Worcester and beyond.
Recommended Citation
Wriggins, Adam, "Agribusiness, Food Insecurity, and Chronic Diet-Related Ailments in Worcester, MA: Toward a Nuanced Narrative" (2018). Sustainability and Social Justice. 198.
https://commons.clarku.edu/idce_masters_papers/198
Worcester
Yes
Included in
Environmental Studies Commons, International and Area Studies Commons, Urban Studies and Planning Commons
