While extreme hunger is rare in the United States, many Americans experience food insecurity. According to the latest federal data, that number includes about 1 in 8 people in Massachusetts.   

The United States Department of Agriculture last week released its study on hunger and food security which found that upward of 11.9 percent of Bay Staters cannot rely on having enough to eat.

Nationally, this number hovers around 14.9, with more than a third experiencing very low food security. In Massachusetts, 4.5 percent are considered very food insecure. 

In light of these figures, the Massachusetts Law Reform Institute is calling on members of Congress to not cut food stamps and other programs that help feed the poor. Nearly 1 million Masschusetts residents rely on food assistance. 

"Any level of food hardship is unacceptable, particulary in a state that's perceived to be as well off as Massachusetts but where so many struggle with the high cost of food, fuel and shelter," Pat Baker of the institute said.