Not everyone can afford to eat in a way that’s good for the planet. Here’s why that matters.

Sustainable eating gets praised as the solution to everything from climate change to personal health. Eat organic, buy local, cook from scratch—it’s painted as the obvious choice for anyone who cares about the future. But what happens when that choice doesn’t actually exist?
For millions, food is about survival, not sustainability. They don’t have the luxury of picking the perfect produce at a farmers’ market or spending extra on ethically sourced groceries. Some live in food deserts, others work multiple jobs, and many simply can’t afford to prioritize the environment over getting enough to eat.
Blaming individuals for not eating sustainably ignores a much bigger issue—our entire food system is designed for convenience, profit, and inequality. Before pointing fingers at the people who can’t make “better choices,” it’s time to face the reality of why sustainable eating isn’t an option for everyone. These 14 hard truths explain why.








