Through interviews with key experts and analyzing community data we found several key issues that impact food and nutritional insecurity in Tippecanoe County:

• Availability of nutritious food - Many residents in the Greater Lafayette Area reside in food deserts. Due to lack of retail grocery stores, many times residents simply do not have nutritious food available to them.  Often times the only stores in these areas are dollar stores and gas stations that typically do not carry fresh produce, but are well stocked on processed foods. 

• Access to nutritious food - In many cases it is a matter of financial constraints that prevent residents from purchasing enough food and/or nutritious food options. At the same time lack of transportation options, either due to lack of a car or easy access to bus routes, prevent access to stores with healthy options. 

• Quality of diet - Due to either lack of access to nutritious food or lack of nutrition education, the quality of diet is often sub par. Lack of education may mean the not understanding recommended dietary guidelines or how to prepare healthy food servings. Lack of education can also be related to not being aware of healthy food options offered in the community.