Arlington, Va. – The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI) welcomes the Senate Agriculture Committee’s farm bill discussion draft and thanks Chairman John Boozman (R-AR) for including language that recognizes the important role frozen produce plays in improving access to nutritious foods. The legislative draft specifically includes provisions from the frozen-focused Supporting All Healthy Options When Purchasing Produce (SHOPP) Act (S. 813/H.R. 1782), which strengthens the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP) by improving year-round access to frozen fruits, vegetables, and legumes. The draft also recognizes frozen fruits, vegetables, and legumes as important for inclusion in produce prescription programs.
“Frozen foods are a practical, affordable solution that help families stretch their food dollars further while supporting healthy eating,” said Alison Bodor, AFFI President and CEO. “Families typically waste $3,000 worth of food a year, and spoilage plays a significant role. In contrast, the long shelf life of frozen fruits and vegetables prevents food waste, maximizing the nutrient intake per dollar spent on produce. Freezing helps households have better access to nutritious, high-quality foods regardless of season, location, or budget.”
Together with similar bipartisan provisions included in the House-passed farm bill, this marks an important step toward ensuring federal nutrition programs reflect how Americans access nutritious foods and recognize frozen foods as practical, affordable, and nutritious options for consumers.
“AFFI is ready to work with Chairman Boozman, committee members, and congressional leaders to finalize a farm bill that promotes practical and commonsense nutrition policy solutions. We urge Congress to move quickly to enact final legislation,” concluded Bodor.
