President Trump has announced a committee to tackle ultra-processed foods in schools under “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA).
Leading the lead is Florida Agriculture Secretary Wilton Simpson. The Secretary expressed support for the president’s idea of growing health concerns related to childhood nutrition and consumption of ultra-processed foods.
Simpson also said that if bureaucratic barriers prevent current federal efforts from moving forward, his office will take steps to define and address ultra-processed foods in the next Congress.
“Make Our Children Healthy Again Assessment” in the “Make America Healthy Again Commission” states:
“American diets have been moving dramatically towards ultra-processed foods (UPFs), resulting in nutrient depletion, increased calorie intake and exposure to harmful additives,” Simpson said. “Now, nearly 70% of children’s calories come from UPF, which contributes to obesity, diabetes and other chronic diseases.”
Under Secretary Simpson, the Florida Department of Agriculture is prioritizing helping to send more Florida-produced nutritious foods to Florida schools and food banks. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services manages the national school lunch program at the state level to ensure that millions of nutritious meals are delivered to children each year.
In the current state budget, Secretary Simpson has worked with legislative leaders to provide nearly $40 million in efforts to feed Florida farmers. The initiative will expand the infrastructure of Florida food banks and link fresh foods grown or produced by Florida farmers to local food banks across the state.
“I applaud President Trump’s leadership through the Committee to re-healthenate America to address growing concerns related to child nutrition and ultra-processed foods,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “If bureaucratic tactics and barriers hinder federal actions, we are prepared to define ultra-processed foods here in Florida and take decisive steps to protect children’s health. Children in Florida should receive better than ultra-processed food meals, and we will continue to prioritize fresh and nutritious products from Florida farmers on our school menus.”
