Migrant Workers and Nutrition: Working In "The Garden," But Not Eating From It

California's Central Valley, also known as the greatest garden in the world, has by far the highest agricultural production in the country. But ironically, those who work in "the garden" often don't benefit from the fresh fruits and vegetables they harvest. A big portion of the farm workers in the area are Latino and many of their families suffer from health and obesity problems. In a recent survey of California's farm workers, 45% said they had trouble getting enough healthy food in their diet. Why is this happening?

Reporter Pauline Bartolone traveled to Fresno – the most agriculturally productive county in the nation – to get some answers for the radio program Latino USA.

California’s Central Valley, also known as the greatest garden in the world, has by far the highest agricultural production in the country. But ironically, those who work in “the garden,” often don’t benefit from the fresh fruits and vegetables they harvest. A big portion of the farm workers in the area are Latino and many of their families suffer from health and obesity problems. In a recent survey of California’s farm workers, 45% said they had trouble getting enough healthy food in their diet. Why is this happening?

Here, Susana Cruz from The Futuro Media Group explains the challenges people face getting access to healthy food in Fresno.

 

Here, Stuart Woolf from The Futuro Media Group explains obstacles to Regional Food Systems in the Central Valley.

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