In Italy, about 3.4 million people live in moderate or severe food insecurity. That means they struggle to access healthy, safe and adequate food. A condition that, according to the Diabetes and Research Foundation, exposes them to a risk of diabetes two to three times higher than average, as well as a higher incidence of overweight (32%) and obesity (19.9%). “It is only an apparent paradox,” explains Angelo Avogaro, President of the Foundation, "Those with fewer economic resources tend to choose cheaper, often ready-made, ultra-processed foods rich in sugar and fat, which offer immediate pleasure but damage health in the long run. The data speak for themselves: 7.5% of Italians cannot afford a protein meal (based on meat, fish or alternatives) every other day, while the use of discount stores for daily shopping is growing. A picture that recalls the urgency of public policies that can guarantee access to healthy and balanced food for all.