Columbia Food Policy Committee
Words by Susan Carson Lambert
Food desert—a common conversation amidst food advocates and policy makers alike. And for good reason. Many Americans have difficulty accessing fresh fruits and vegetables. This limited access to affordable and nutritious food is called “food desert.”
Instead of pop-up farmers’ markets or produce stands, fast food restaurants, convenience stores and liquor stores pop up in excess, creating a swamp of unhealthy food available to residents in these neighborhoods, putting residents at risk for any number of health-related diseases. And Columbia is not immune.
The city of Columbia recognized how food deserts impact a community and the health of its citizens, and in April 2017, launched the Columbia Food Policy Committee (CFPC). The city received 54 applications when filling 18 CFPC seats; according to the city, that enthusiastic response is well beyond normal compared to the number of people who usually apply for city boards and commissions. The committee is the first government-appointed food policy council to be created in South Carolina.
A food policy committee is a group of representatives and stakeholders from all sectors of the food system—production, consumption, processing, distribution and waste cycling. Together, they see across the spectrum of the food system and observe where the frailties are. CFPC, which held its first meeting in July 2017, is tasked with addressing challenges to healthy food access and helping to build a sustainable food system for the Midlands. Its members serve two-year terms and represent various aspects of our food system—from farmers and chefs to labor organizers and anti-hunger advocates.
CFPC’s has five subcommittees: zoning and land access, procurement, marketing and communications, research and evaluation and food equity. City residents can participate in any of the subcommittees, as they are only required to have at least one CFPC member. Within those areas committee is identifying and expanding mechanisms as well as policies that build local food infrastructure; reduce food waste; and foster local and healthy food access in schools, restaurants, institutions and communities. The food equity subcommittee is spearheading community listening sessions across the city to hear from residents before making any policy recommendations. An intention among CFPC members is for this work to be grounded in equitable solutions that provide healthier food options—particularly for those communities most impacted.
One initiative recently launched by CFPC was starting a Columbia chapter of Food Rescue US. This effort helps reduce food waste and connects food donations from restaurants and grocers to community kitchens and food pantries. If you’re interested in volunteering, including to get involved with picking up/delivering donations, visit foodrescue.us.
To learn more about the Columbia Food Policy Committee or get involved, please visit facebook.com/colafpc.
