Ep 5. The Fresh Food Fail

What's Eating America season 1 episode 5, "The Fresh Food Fail," takes a closer look at the challenges faced by small-scale farmers and their efforts to bring fresh produce to underserved communities. Host Andrew Zimmern travels to rural Georgia, where he meets with farmers struggling to keep their businesses afloat in the face of environmental and economic obstacles.

Throughout the episode, Zimmern highlights the ways in which the current food system in America disadvantages small farmers and makes it difficult for them to access the resources they need to succeed. He visits a local farmers market in search of fresh, locally grown produce, but finds that many vendors are selling imported fruits and vegetables instead.

Zimmern then travels to a nearby farm where he meets with a family of farmers who are facing numerous challenges, including a lack of access to water and the high cost of equipment and supplies. Despite these challenges, the farmers are determined to continue cultivating fresh produce and providing it to their community.

The episode also explores the problem of food deserts, areas where residents have limited access to fresh, healthy food. Zimmern visits a neighborhood in Atlanta where residents have few options for buying fresh produce and often rely on fast food or convenience stores for their meals. He talks with local organizers who are working to address the problem by bringing mobile farmers markets to the area.

Finally, Zimmern speaks with policymakers and activists working to change the food system in America and create a more equitable and sustainable future. He visits a food hub in Atlanta where farmers can connect with consumers and distributors, and learns about the work being done to promote healthy food options for all communities.

Overall, "The Fresh Food Fail" offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges facing small farmers and the need for systemic change to ensure that everyone has access to fresh, healthy food.