INDIANA – As grocery prices continue to climb, squeezing household budgets across Indiana, a former state official calls for a renewed focus on supporting local farmers to combat food insecurity. Terry Goodin, a farmer from Scott County and former State Director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Division, argues that the current food system disproportionately benefits large corporations at the expense of consumers and farmers.
In a recent statement, Goodin highlighted the widening gap between retail food prices and farmers’ incomes. “Despite the steep prices that consumers pay at grocery stores, many farmers are receiving a fraction of the revenue generated from their products,” he stated, citing a U.S. Department of Agriculture statistic that farmers receive only 14 cents of every dollar spent on food.
Goodin attributes this disparity to factors such as high production and distribution costs and the dominance of large agribusinesses acting as “middlemen” in the supply chain. He contends this imbalance creates “food deserts,” areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. Often lacking traditional grocery stores, these areas force residents to rely on convenience stores and fast-food outlets, leading to poor nutrition and increased health risks.
“The absence of grocery stores means that residents in food deserts are diving head first into long-term negative health outcomes,” Goodin warns, emphasizing the link between food deserts and chronic diseases like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
He criticizes current trade policies, arguing that tariffs on imported goods harm American farmers by increasing costs and encouraging other nations to seek cheaper alternatives. Instead, Goodin advocates for state and local initiatives to support farmers and improve food access.
“Our state must step up and start creating opportunities like fresh markets and local farmer’s markets,” he asserts. He also encourages communities to promote backyard gardens to supplement food supplies and address nutritional deficiencies.
Goodin’s call to action emphasizes the need for a more equitable food system that benefits both farmers and consumers. “It is crucial to remember that a fair and just food system benefits everyone – from the farm to the table,” he concludes.
As Hoosiers grapple with rising food costs, Goodin’s message resonates with many who feel underserved by the current food system. His advocacy for stronger farmer partnerships and increased local food production offers a potential path towards greater food security and healthier communities.
About Terry Goodin:
Terry Goodin is a farmer from Scott County, Indiana, and a 20-year member of the Indiana General Assembly. He previously served as the State Director of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Division.
