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2007 Farm Bill

Recent U.S. government food guidance systems have advised consumers to increase their daily intake of fresh fruits and vegetables. With much needed attention being given to the obesity epidemic and related public health issues, fresh fruits and vegetables represent an opportunity to help change the public’s eating choices. While produce makes up about 20% of total agriculture receipts, current federal expenditures for fruits and vegetables are only about 1% of agricultural spending.

Because of this, PMA supports the inclusion of a produce title in the 2007 Farm Bill. PMA seeks:

• Support for measures like the Specialty Crop Competitive Act, which give greater funding to the fresh produce industry. PMA also recommends a new emphasis be given to domestic communication and marketing efforts to inform consumers about the many benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables.
  
• More effective efforts to encourage increased consumption of fruits and vegetables among food stamp participants and those eligible for food stamps both through the Food Stamp Nutrition Education Program and direct food stamp benefits. These programs must reflect the dietary guidelines so that Americans counting on federal assistance can increase consumption of these healthful products.
  
• Increased funding for effective and efficient fruit and vegetable commodity purchases, including the popular Department of Defense Fresh Program as well as expansion of the School Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program to 100 schools in every state.
  
• The establishment of the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program as a permanent initiative. While much consideration has been paid to children's health, it is imperative that due attention be given to all population groups – particularly senior citizens, who will have increased access to fresh produce through this valuable program.
  
• More research efforts to examine why consumers do not eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and to explore the health benefits of fruits and vegetables.