Why Is Food Policy Important? The food system plays a central role in the health of our citizens. It dictates access, quality, affordability and the nutritional value of the food we consume. The state of our population's health is inextricably related to the quality of our food system. Unfortunately, healthy, nutritious, accessible and affordable food eludes many people, which, in turn, undermines health. Gaps include hunger and food insecurity, lack of fair prices for farmers, lack of fresh local food in schools and institutional settings, lack of full service grocery stores in low income communities, lack of knowledge on what food is nutritious, and lack of knowledge on how to prepare nutritious meals. The policies and priorities that regulate local farmers, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, and other institutions all play a role in shaping our food system, as do the individual attitudes we hold about the quality and essence of our food. Positive changes in public policy and awareness will offer our community its best chance to improve our local food system.