Families no longer have planned, healthy meals. And it isn't just the foodstampers. Growing up certain foods were reserved for special occasions. Typical times for special treats like soda, chips, etc. were family picnics, birthday parties, holidays. We had a weekly treat as well on Sunday nights. We were allowed a candy bar while watching Disney and Mutual of Omaha's Wild Kingdom. I recall one friend Friday at their house was pizza and soda night. Many of these habits have stayed with me. You still won't find things like soda or chips or candy in my house.
We always had potato chips in the house - candy not so much. But we were thin as rails. There’s more to obesity and ill health than salty snacks.
In my former life as a county sanitarian, I inspected many welfare houses for various reasons. One place had no food in it at all. The fridge contained three Coronas and a box of baking soda. The food shelves in the kitchen contained a box of baking soda. That’s all.
I asked the master of the house what he fed the kids (of which there were several). His reply (with a look of incredulity at my lack of knowledge) was, “When they get hungry, I give ‘em a dollar and they go over to the liquor store and get a hot dog.”
There seemed to be plenty of money for cigarettes and pot, though.
My main point, though, is that these folks regard this state of affairs as normal.
When both parents are working, preparing meals becomes a little more difficult.
The dirty little secret that we're not supposed to know about is that with a little financial planning and discipline, both parents don't really need to work. I've managed on E6 military pay to keep my wife at home where she raises our three kids and cooks healthy meals. I can still afford to make a house payment, two car payments and have some of the niceties. We just don't waste money.
My Russian wife, who believes in traditional values, loathes junk food and doesn't like eating out at restaurants. I've been blessed!
Mutual of Omaha’s Wild Kingdom. Such great memories! :)
Home made popcorn was our treats...and ice cream