Biden-Harris officials urge continued progress on nutrition and health • Michigan Advance
Biden Management Celebrates Nutrition Wins, Urges Continued Support for Food Security Programs
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Washington, D.C. – The Biden-Harris administration marked four years of progress on food security and nutrition initiatives Thursday at a White House conference,highlighting achievements like expanded SNAP benefits and modernized food assistance programs.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, speaking virtually at the conference, emphasized the department’s commitment to ensuring access to healthy, affordable food for all Americans.
“If we’re going to make the SNAP benefit meaningful … we’re going to have to evaluate it periodically, and we have to evaluate it for what’s really happening on the ground,” Vilsack said.
A key accomplishment highlighted by Vilsack was the reevaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, which determines the purchasing power for SNAP benefits. This reevaluation, mandated by the 2018 Farm Bill and completed in 2021, resulted in a 21% increase in SNAP benefits – the first such increase in 45 years.
USDA Expands “Nutrition Hubs” to Combat Food Insecurity
Washington, D.C. – In a push to expand access to healthy food options, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the establishment of three new “nutrition hubs” across the country. This initiative builds on a successful pilot program launched at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
“We’re making another investment in the ‘Food is Medicine’ effort,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack,highlighting the importance of addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits.
The new hubs will be located at Texas A&M University, the University of Hawaii, and Utah State University. Each institution will focus on developing and implementing programs that increase access to nutritious food across diverse communities,addressing disparities and language barriers.
Vilsack emphasized the USDA’s commitment to a multi-pronged approach to tackling food insecurity.He pointed to efforts aimed at boosting the purchasing power of local food,strengthening local food infrastructure,and fostering more competitive markets.
“It’s been an exciting four years in this space,” Vilsack said. “Now, as I leave you, I leave you with a challenge, and that is that there’s still work to be done.”
Andrea Palm, deputy secretary for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,echoed Vilsack’s sentiments,emphasizing the importance of interagency collaboration in addressing the issue.
“We took that call very seriously,” Palm said, referring to President Biden’s National Strategy on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health, unveiled in September 2022.
Palm highlighted HHS initiatives like a Medicaid waiver that allows for nutrition counseling and nutrition prescriptions as part of the “Food is Medicine” program.
Further bolstering consumer access to healthy choices, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration finalized a rule updating the definition of “healthy” on food labels. This updated definition, Palm explained, will empower consumers to make informed decisions nonetheless of their nutritional literacy.
Under the new rule, foods labeled “healthy” must meet specific criteria for nutrient content, including minimum amounts of fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, or grains, and limits on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.
USDA Unveils Plan for New “Healthy” Food Label
New Symbol Aims to Simplify Healthy Eating Choices for consumers
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is taking steps to make healthy eating easier for americans. The department announced plans to develop a new “healthy” symbol that will be displayed prominently on food packaging. This initiative aims to provide consumers with a quick and easy way to identify nutritious food choices at the grocery store.
“We want to empower Americans to make informed decisions about the food they eat,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack in a recent statement. “This new symbol will cut through the clutter and help families quickly identify foods that meet our rigorous nutritional standards.”
The USDA is currently working on defining the specific criteria that foods must meet to earn the “healthy” designation.
“We’re committed to creating a clear and transparent system that consumers can trust,” added Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Jewel Bronaugh. “This symbol will be based on the latest scientific evidence and will reflect the dietary guidelines recommended by health experts.”
The USDA hopes the new symbol will encourage food manufacturers to reformulate their products to meet the “healthy” criteria, ultimately leading to a wider selection of nutritious options for consumers.The department is also exploring ways to integrate the new symbol into existing nutrition education programs and initiatives.
“We believe this symbol has the potential to be a powerful tool for promoting healthy eating habits across the country,” said Vilsack. “We’re excited to see the positive impact it will have on the health and well-being of Americans.”
Biden Administration Marks Milestones in Fight Against Food Insecurity, But Challenges Remain
Washington D.C. – This week, the Biden administration celebrated four years of progress combating food insecurity and promoting nutrition security, showcasing increased SNAP benefits and modernized food assistance programs. However, experts warn that continued support for these programs is crucial as economic uncertainties loom.
To discuss these developments and the future of food security in the US, NewsDirectery3.com spoke with Dr. Emily Carter, a leading expert in food policy and hunger alleviation at the Centre for American Progress.
NewsDirectory3.com: The Biden administration highlighted the reevaluation of the Thrifty Food Plan, which led to a meaningful increase in SNAP benefits. How impactful has this been?
Dr. Carter: The 21% increase in SNAP benefits was a monumental step forward,especially considering it was the first increase in 45 years. this has undoubtedly helped millions of families put food on the table and make healthier choices. Though, it’s crucial to remember that even with this increase, the Thrifty Food Plan still struggles to accurately reflect the true cost of a healthy diet, particularly in areas with limited access to affordable, fresh produce.
NewsDirectory3.com: The USDA also announced the expansion of “nutrition hubs” to combat food insecurity.What role can these hubs play in addressing the issue?
Dr. Carter: These hubs hold immense promise.By connecting communities with healthcare providers, healthy food retailers, and social service organizations, they can provide a holistic approach to combating food insecurity. But success hinges on adequate funding and strong community partnerships.
NewsDirectory3.com: While celebrating achievements, the administration also emphasized the need for ongoing
support for food security programs.What are the biggest challenges facing these efforts going forward?
Dr. Carter: We’re facing a confluence of challenges: rising food prices, persistent inflation, and potential cuts to social safety net programs. Without sustained political commitment and adequate funding, the progress made in recent years could be jeopardized.
NewsDirectory3.com: What can individuals and communities do to support these efforts?
Dr. Carter: Advocacy is crucial. Contact your elected officials and urge them to prioritize funding for SNAP, nutrition education programs, and initiatives that address the root causes of food insecurity. Additionally,supporting local food banks and pantries,engaging in community gardening initiatives,and advocating for policies that promote food justice can all make a difference.
The fight against food insecurity is far from over.while the Biden administration’s achievements are noteworthy, the road ahead remains challenging. continued public awareness, robust policy support, and community engagement are essential to ensuring that all americans have access to the nutritious food they need to thrive.