State agriculture officials advocate for new nutrition education programs

Press Release

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today at the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture 2026 Winter Policy Conference, NASDA members amended the organization's policy to encourage federal agencies to invest in nationwide nutrition education programs.

"State agriculture departments work to ensure their local communities are healthy and thriving with a safe, affordable and nutritious food supply, and nutrition education is a key component to helping accomplish this goal," NASDA President, Commissioner Amanda Beal, said.

NASDA's policy now states, "NASDA recommends federal investments in educational programs and community-based initiatives that help individuals enrolled in SNAP or other food assistance programs make healthier choices."

"Federal programs that help individuals live healthier lives while supporting agriculture through the consumption of farmers' products holistically benefits communities through better health and stronger economies," Beal said. "Evidence-based interventions and nutrition education programs, delivered in partnership with state and local organizations and land-grant universities, help meet families and communities where they are. From hands-on nutrition education and public awareness campaigns to efforts that strengthen local food system environments, these approaches help SNAP dollars stretch further, equip families with practical shopping and cooking skills, and support healthier outcomes."

Background

NASDA has long supported increased investments in national nutrition incentive programs such as the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, Produce Prescription Programs, WIC and Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Programs, and state-led cooperative agreement food purchasing programs. For more information about NASDA's food systems and nutrition policy, visit nasda.org/policy/food-systems-nutrition/.

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NASDA is a nonpartisan, nonprofit association which represents the elected and appointed commissioners, secretaries and directors of the departments of agriculture in all fifty states and four U.S. territories. NASDA grows and enhances American food and agricultural communities through policy, partnerships and public engagement. To learn more about NASDA and its trade programs and trade policy, please visit www.nasda.org.