Food swamp: What defines a food swamp?

• A. High produce variety
• B. Balanced diet options
• C. More unhealthy than healthy food
• D. Low sodium options

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that a food swamp is defined by the local food environment being dominated by unhealthy options relative to healthy ones. In such areas, there are plenty of fast-food outlets, convenience stores, and shops selling highly processed, high-calorie items, which makes choosing unhealthy foods easier and more common despite the presence of some healthier options. This emphasis on the overall mix and accessibility of unhealthy versus healthy foods is what sets a food swamp apart. It’s different from a food desert, which focuses on a lack of access to fresh, affordable produce. So the description that notes there are more unhealthy than healthy food options best captures the concept. The other choices don’t address the balance of available food options in the environment.