The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) recently expressed appreciation for the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission's newly released "Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy," a roadmap aimed at combating the rising tide of childhood chronic diseases through targeted reforms in nutrition and public health policy. Unveiled on September 9 by the Trump Administration's interagency commission, chaired by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the 120-plus action items underscore the link between vibrant farming communities and healthier future generations, emphasizing science-based dietary guidelines, reduced regulatory burdens, and greater access to wholesome, American-sourced foods.

The strategy builds on an earlier assessment of America's youth health crisis, where chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and developmental disorders have surged in recent decades. Key proposals include updating the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans to prioritize evidence-based nutrition, developing a formal definition for ultra-processed foods to guide consumer choices, and launching public awareness campaigns on potential risks from environmental factors. In a nod to school nutrition, the plan advocates reinstating whole milk options in federal meal programs and supporting state-level waivers under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to curb purchases of sugary, low-nutrient items. It also calls for streamlining pesticide approvals at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to foster innovation while maintaining safety standards, alongside voluntary conservation incentives that reward sustainable practices on working lands.

These recommendations resonate with the agricultural sector, which has long advocated for policies that empower producers to meet evolving consumer demands without excessive red tape. By removing barriers for dairy farmers to sell whole milk products directly, the strategy could invigorate rural economies and expand market opportunities for nutrient-dense staples like fresh produce, protein meats, and dairy. AFBF, representing more than 5.8 million farm and ranch families nationwide, sees this as a pivotal step toward aligning federal initiatives with on-the-ground realities, where slim profit margins demand flexibility to adapt to health trends and climate challenges.

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented on the Make America Healthy Again Commission’s Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy. “Farmers and ranchers share the goal of improving health outcomes in America, and they are dedicated to growing safe, nutritious and affordable food for America’s families. Healthy meals start with healthy farms, and we appreciate the report’s recognition of the vital role farmers play in the food supply chain.”

Duvall added, “A renewed focus on American-grown fresh fruits, vegetables and meat, along with reintroducing whole milk into the school meal programs can help provide a foundation for a lifetime of smart choices. Reducing or streamlining regulations in smart ways can allow farms operating on very thin margins to innovate, diversify and respond to consumer demand. Prioritizing voluntary conservation efforts for farmers and ranchers and optimizing EPA’s already robust pesticide regulatory process to accelerate innovation are welcome recommendations.”

As the report released, the roadmap recognized the need to meet with farmers and ranchers across the country.

“We appreciate the commission’s willingness to meet with farmers across the country, hear our concerns and develop smart solutions,” said President Duvall. “Those of us involved in the food system look forward to being fully engaged with the commission and policymakers at all levels, to ensure a full understanding of the scope and intention of the recommendations and impact on our food supply chain.”

Over the decades, agriculture's innovations and transportation efficiencies have brought fresh food to the table all over the country and the world. “Our food system has evolved and innovated over time to provide healthy and nutritious food to meet the diverse needs and preferences of American families; and we look forward to further innovations to improve health outcomes in America while ensuring farmers and ranchers can stock America’s pantries, explained Duvall.

He added, “AFBF remains committed to collaborating with the MAHA Commission and Congress to implement these reforms effectively. This strategy isn't just about policy, it's about investing in the backbone of our nation: family farms that feed us all.”

As discussions advance, the American Farm Bureau and state Farm Bureaus urge swift action on high-impact areas and bringing key stakeholders to the table.