Most twenty-somethings know that fast-food menus are cheaper that health food store prices, but why? According to an article in The New York Times, “calorie for calorie, junk foods not only cost less than fruits and vegetables, but junk food prices also are less likely to rise as a result of inflation.” This finding is the result of a study conducted by the University of Washington that may indicate a correlation between wealth and health.

Regarding calories per dollar, the price ratio should be a logical one: more calories equal a higher price. Well, not in America. Typically the most calorie-laden foods are simple carbohydrates such as pastries, fast food and highly refined packaged snacks. Since these foods pack a calorie punch, they are—scientifically speaking—more energy dense than their nutritious counterparts.

It’s common knowledge that a celery stick contains fewer calories than a bag of corn chips. Health-conscious veggie-lovers will impulsively reach for nutritious greens, but what about consumers who are trying to save some green? The University of Washington researchers found that “energy-dense munchies cost on average $1.76 per 1,000 calories, compared with $18.16 per 1,000 calories for low-energy but nutritious foods.” Government subsidies and overproduction are responsible for the cheap chips (and other calorie-dense munchies). Amidst commodity regulations and mass crop production, health foods seem to have been placed on the back burner. Corn, the government’s subsidy poster child, is used to fatten livestock for human consumption. It’s also found in an astonishing amount of processed (read: unhealthy) food. (continue reading)