Food Policy Models
Food policy models focus on policies related to food and agricultural systems, improving food access and addressing social determinants of health (SDOH). Models that influence food policy address the complexity of United States food systems, involving many different stakeholders and sectors.
Food Policy Councils
Food policy councils bring together partners and community leaders from agencies and organizations to evaluate and address systems-level food problems. Councils are commonly created by local, state, or federal governments and can also be established by non-governmental agencies. Participating agencies and organizations vary, but often include leaders from agriculture, health, environment, and economic development sectors.
The key objectives of food policy councils are to:
- Evaluate local food systems
- Provide collaborative solutions to system problems
- Increase coordination of food system resources
Food policy councils often focus on providing policy-based solutions to food system problems. For example, North Carolina passed the Healthy Corner Stores Act in 2010 after it was recommended by their statewide food policy group. However, food policy councils can also build educational campaigns, lead fundraisers, and connect people with system resources. For example, the Kansas Food Policy Council connected rural citizens to SNAP resources by extending outreach in those areas.
Land Use Policies
Implementing policies that incentivize and encourage the use of public and private land for agricultural purposes can increase the amount of food grown locally and preserve an important economic factor in rural communities. Policies can be combined with other food access models to make implementation easier. For example, ordinances allowing public land to be used for community gardens can shorten the process of starting community gardens in the future. Policies also communicate to the community that local food production and access to healthy foods are both local priorities.
Implementation Considerations
Food policy councils often use a collective impact framework to help them work together effectively. Groups using a collective impact approach focus on five things: agreeing on a shared goal, using the same measures to track progress, making sure each partner does what they do best to support the group, communicating regularly, and having dedicated support from a backbone organization to keep the effort coordinated. Rural communities have special considerations when it comes to using collective impact, such as expanding existing collaborations and leveraging existing resources, including staffing, technology, and funding.
This model requires strong relationships with community partners and policymakers. Food policy councils are most successful when they build credibility and trust within the community. Comprehensive evaluations of food policies take time, and organizations and partners serving as council members must be upfront about their availability and commitment. Grants are available to help fund food policy group activities and assist with sustaining programs.