Celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian has stated that the concept of food deserts is an outdated excuse for not eating healthily, asserting that modern technology and accessible transportation make nutritious food available to most Americans. Zakarian argues that the primary barrier to healthy eating is a lack of personal effort and planning, rather than geographic limitations.
During a recent event, Zakarian emphasized the accessibility of groceries through services like Instacart, which launched in 2012, a year after the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) first mapped food deserts. He pointed out that widespread smartphone ownership allows for easy online ordering, effectively bridging any perceived distance to grocery stores. "You've got Instacart. You can get anything you want all the time," Zakarian said.
The USDA defines food deserts as communities with limited access to affordable, healthy food retailers, typically based on income and proximity to supermarkets. However, Zakarian believes technological advancements have shifted the focus from access to individual habits.
"If you can drive to McDonald's, you can go find some place that has fresh food or canned food, or you can order it online," Zakarian told Fox News Digital. "There really is no reason to not cook for yourself and cook for your family."
While acknowledging that affordability can be a challenge, with grocery prices having risen significantly in recent years, Zakarian advocates for prioritizing meal preparation. He suggests that the convenience of fast food often comes at a higher cost than cooking at home. He recommends a structured approach to grocery shopping and meal preparation, suggesting shopping twice a week and planning meals in smaller blocks rather than daily. "It's not that hard, but it does take work," he added.
Beyond the nutritional benefits, Zakarian highlighted the social and emotional advantages of cooking together as a family. He suggested that the kitchen serves as a central gathering place, fostering a sense of pride and connection. "When they open that food up, I guarantee you the other kids around are jealous that they got good food cooked by mom," he said, reflecting on the lasting impact of home-cooked meals.