U.S. Produce Industry Offers Policy Proposals for Nation's Health Revitalization
Fresh Produce for a Healthier America: IFPA's Policy Recommendations
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has launched a campaign called "Fresh Produce for a Healthier America," aiming to make fruits and vegetables more accessible and affordable for all Americans.
Based in Newark, Delaware, the IFPA represents the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain. The association has submitted policy recommendations to the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, urging U.S. policymakers to take action on several key areas.
- Embedding Produce Prescriptions in Federal Health Care Programs
IFPA strongly encourages embedding produce prescriptions as a covered benefit within federal health care programs. This step would incentivize the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables for improved health outcomes.
- Expanding the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program
IFPA also recommends expanding the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program so that all students can develop healthy eating habits early in life.
- Supporting Sustainable Fruit and Vegetable Production
The association urges the commission to support fruit and vegetable production by ensuring access to safe crop-protection tools. Furthermore, they encourage incentivizing regenerative-agriculture practices that strengthen long-term food security.
- Advocating for a Stable North American Fresh Produce Market
IFPA advocates for resolving tariff disputes between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico that threaten affordability, accessibility, and stability of fresh produce supplies across North America. A stable supply chain is crucial to ensuring consistent access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Cathy Burns, IFPA CEO, emphasizes the importance of investing in farmers, programs, and policies that make fresh produce accessible and affordable for all Americans. She stated, "Fruits and vegetables have been the quiet, essential workhorses of public health."
In addition to these efforts, major retailers such as Walmart and Kroger are also focusing on improving health outcomes through the food-as-medicine movement and personalization. For instance, Walmart is offering personalized nutrition to its Medicare Advantage and Medicaid members in partnership with Soda Health.
In conclusion, IFPA's policy recommendations focus on integrating fresh produce into health programs, enhancing nutrition education, supporting sustainable production, and maintaining an open, stable North American fresh produce market. By doing so, they aim to reduce regulatory burdens, enhance nutrition programs, and improve the economic viability of fresh produce businesses, ultimately making fresh produce more accessible and affordable for every American.
- Partnerships Between Food-and-Drink Businesses and Science
IFPA promotes collaborations between food-and-drink businesses and academic institutions for research in health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and nutrition. partnerships could help advance healthy-cooking techniques and develop innovative food products that contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
- Addressing Food Deserts and High Food Prices
The association acknowledges that access to fresh produce is still a concern in some underserved communities due to factors such as war-and-conflicts and policy-and-legislation. IFPA suggests implementing measures, like crime-and-justice reforms and general-news coverage focusing on these issues, to address food deserts and high food prices. This will help bridge the gap between sustainable food access and vibrant lifestyle choices, contributing to a healthier America for all.
