By Diana Crofts-Pelayo
Citing the obesity epidemic among America’s children, a California consumer group says federal subsidies support junk food instead of fresh food.
CALPIRG’s report is called “Apples to Twinkies 2012” because it says producers of corn syrup are financially favored over apple growers.
Twinkies and apples were used as props at a San Diego press event stating subsidized junk food is cheaper than healthy fruit and produce.
The report finds that between 1995 and 2011, $18.2 billion in tax dollars subsidized corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, cornstarch and soy oils. That equals $7.58 per taxpayer per year. It also said taxpayers spent only $637 million since 1995 subsidizing apples.
Comparing apples and Twinkies, the report said the money would buy each taxpayer 21 Twinkies and only half an apple.
Brian Beevers of Brian’s Farmers’ Markets said the public’s tax dollars are allowing for corporate farms to sell their products at much cheaper prices and market that food to children.
“Honestly, it’s hard for a farmer selling romaine lettuce, carrots, apples and other incredible produce to compete with Happy Meals, Pop-Tarts and Easy Mac, especially when it costs less,” he said.
More children are being diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure, hypertension and obesity, said Angela Yvonne, a licensed acupuncturist.