First passed in 1933, the Farm Bill aimed to standardize and steady food prices during and after the Great Depression by offering financial rewards in the form of subsidies to farmers who grew so-called “commodity crops.” Today, those commodity crops include wheat, corn, rice, and soybeans—top ingredients in higher-calorie, lower-nutrient, shelf-stable foods like sugary beverages, chips, and candy bars. Notably, fresh fruits and vegetables are not considered commodity crops, nor are lean proteins, ensuring that healthier foods will remain at a higher price point, reserving the privilege of
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