The board’s conclusion in its recent editorial does not consider the possibility that healthy food distribution options will emerge to meet the demand created by the ordinance.

For example, the University of St. Thomas and some community partners are piloting a project embedded in academic activities that aims to deliver high-quality, low-cost fruits and vegetables to Minneapolis corner stores. The staple food ordinance will make this and similar ventures more feasible for other nonprofits and small businesses.

I applaud the Minneapolis City Council for working to address the current inequity in food access and health across Minneapolis neighborhoods. Given that 94 percent of Minneapolis corner store customers would buy fruits and vegetables from corner stores if available and affordable, I think the ordinance can help make a significant difference to the food environment in our community.