WASHINGTON, DC & NEWARK, DE - The United States Department of Agriculture and U.S. Food and Drug Administration recently proposed revisions to the USDA Food and Nutrition Service Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food packages. In response, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) commented on the proposals as it works to define “healthy” at the government level.

“Updating the WIC food packages, which IFPA supports, is one of the most significant steps taken to implement the new national nutrition strategy unveiled by the White House last September,” said Vice President of Nutrition and Health Mollie Van Lieu. “Not only will the updates positively impact the health and nutrition of the 4.9 million women and children who will receive enhanced fruit and vegetable benefits, but it makes Dietary Guidelines for Americans’ (DGA) guidance of ‘making half your plate fruit and vegetables’ a reality by allocating half the benefit for produce—a target only 10 percent of Americans of any income level currently attain.”

The USDA sought feedback on better alignment of WIC’s food packages. IFPA encouraged USDA to implement the rule as a whole and to not make changes that may hinder the integrity of the proposed food packages, a press release stated. IFPA successfully advocated for the temporary increase in the amount of fruits and vegetables available within the program during the pandemic, and the proposed food package would make this permanent.

The FDA has also proposed a definition of “healthy.” In response, IFPA cited data that finds more than half of consumers look at the Nutrition Facts Panel or ingredient list “often” or “always” when making a purchasing decision.

“Food and nutrition labeling touches every consumer regardless of socio-economic status. While we must focus on those who are most nutrition insecure, almost all Americans under-consume fruits and vegetables,” said Van Lieu. “Every time a consumer seeks nutritious food and is sold a food or beverage that undermines their health, it is a missed opportunity to reduce diet-related disease. Labeling transparency is a valuable tool for assisting consumers in making healthful choices and following dietary guidance.”

IFPA provided feedback on specific areas the agency should address through its proposed rule:

• Raw Fruits and Vegetables
• Vegetable and Fruit Products Beyond Raw
• Added Sugars
• Juice Products
• Infants and Children Under Two Years of Age

For more recommendations from IFPA, check out the press release here.

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International Fresh Produce Association