Key Takeaways
- USDA announced its intent to purchase up to $30 million in fresh fruit for food banks and nutrition programs.
- The initiative is funded through Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935.
- Purchases include oranges ($15M), grapefruit ($10M), and mandarins ($5M).
- The program aims to support American farmers managing surplus supply while strengthening food assistance efforts.
- Secretary Brooke L. Rollins highlighted the dual benefit for growers and communities in need.
USDA Announces New Purchase to Support Farmers and Food Assistance Programs
The USDA has outlined plans to acquire up to $30 million in fresh fruit from American producers for distribution through food banks and federal nutrition programs. Announced by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, the initiative leverages the department’s purchasing authority under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, which allows the use of customs receipts to support the agricultural economy and stabilize commodity markets.
According to the statement, the action is designed to benefit both growers navigating surplus commodity volumes and families relying on nutrition assistance. The fresh fruit will be channeled to food banks and community distribution programs nationwide.
USDA Highlights Dual Purpose of the Initiative
Secretary Rollins emphasized the administration’s focus on strengthening both agricultural markets and food security.
“President Trump is standing with America’s farmers, especially right now while the farm economy recovers from years of neglect under the last administration. Certain commodities are experiencing a surplus and USDA is ensuring these crops do not go to waste and instead go to Americans in need across the country,” she said. “These fresh fruits will reach those in need, boosting healthier options for Americans at food banks across the country, all while benefitting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors.”
The USDA notes that these efforts align with ongoing support mechanisms for domestic producers and nutrition programs.
Breakdown of USDA AMS Section 32 Purchases
Through the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), the department regularly procures U.S.-grown food products for nutrition programs administered by the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). These items—commonly known as “USDA Foods”—are essential contributions to The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) and other national safety-net initiatives.
Under the newly announced purchase, AMS will acquire:
- Fresh Oranges: $15 million
- Grapefruit: $10 million
- Mandarins: $5 million
These Section 32 purchases are intended to mitigate crop surpluses, reinforce farm income stability, and enhance the availability of nutritious fresh produce for households across the country.
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