On Friday, New Jersey Senator Cory Booker took to Twitter to criticize the current state of American agriculture. In a tweet, he claimed that most government subsidies go towards commodity crops like corn and soy, which are often used in ultra-processed foods that contribute to diet-related diseases.
Booker’s tweet comes amid a growing debate over the role of government subsidies in shaping the American food system. Critics argue that these subsidies disproportionately benefit large agribusinesses while ignoring small family farms and promoting unhealthy eating habits.
According to data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), nearly 80% of all farm subsidies between 1995 and 2019 went towards just three crops: corn, soybeans, and wheat. These crops are used as ingredients in everything from soda pop to breakfast cereals.
Critics argue that this focus on commodity crops has led to an oversupply of cheap calories and contributed to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other health problems.
While some experts point out that crop subsidies have been a part of American agricultural policy since the Great Depression, others argue that it is time for a change. For example, some advocates have called for more support for organic farming practices or programs aimed at increasing access to healthy foods in low-income communities.
At present no major changes have been made with respect to addressing these issues but various advocacy groups continue lobbying efforts within Congress seeking change.