Earlier today the House Education and Labor Committee passed the Improving Nutrition for America's Children Act of 2010 (H.R. 5504) by a vote of 32 to 13.

"Although United Fresh previously supported the House bill," said Dr. Lorelei DiSogra, United Fresh vice president of nutrition and health, "we are very disappointed with the inclusion of frozen and dried fruit in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program."

The bill now heads to the floor of the House for consideration. Currently, the passed version of the bill does not contain off-sets for the more that $8 billion over 10 years in spending.  Before the bill can move to the House floor it is required to be married with the offsets, the status of which is unclear at this point.

An amendment offered by Reps. David Wu (D-OR) and Cathy McMorris-Rodgers (R-WA) including frozen fruit in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program passed with a voice vote and no discussion.

"We aim to try to improve this legislation as it moves to the House and Senate floor," added DiSogra.

For additional information, please contact Dr. DiSogra at 202-303-3400, ext. 403.