New York City is the food capital of the world – known for its variety of ethnic cuisines, great restaurants, and the ability to find any kind of food at any hour of the day. Given the vast array of food choices, it is important for New Yorkers to make healthy and informed decisions. Under Mayor Bloomberg, New York City has been a leader in implementing policies like calorie labeling and the transfat ban, in order to help make healthful eating easier for everyone.

These efforts are part of a broader food policy, aimed at promoting healthy food, promoting food security, and improving the sustainability of our food system. As a result of New York City’s healthy eating and retail access initiatives, we are beginning to see better eating habits among New Yorkers. 

But there is much more to do, and serious challenges persist:

• 57% of adults are overweight or obese.
• In New York City, 1 in 5 kindergarten students, and 1 in 4 Head Start children, is obese.
• Our poorest communities remain disproportionately burdened by diet related diseases.

New York City is making progress, but change will not come from government alone; we need your help. Everyone has a role to play in making changes to our food system and our diets. We invite you to explore NYCFood to learn more about New York City programs, policies, and opportunities to get involved.