USDA Reports to Congress on Importance of Fruit & Vegetable Snack Program
January 5, 2007
Calling state and local enthusiasm and support for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable School Snack Program "overwhelming," the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently sent Congress a glowing Interim Report on the program's operation in FY06. Fourteen states and 3 Indian Tribal Organizations now participate in the snack program. "The Report emphasizes that the program is very popular among students, parents, teachers and food service, noting that schools report a noticeable shift in student preferences from high processed, high calorie and high fat snack foods to more fruits and vegetables," said Dr. Lorelei DiSogra, United Fresh vice president of nutrition and health. Parents also report they see a carryover at home with their kids requesting more fresh fruits and vegetables for their home meals. "We're thrilled that USDA has once again validated the success of the snack program in improving children's eating habits. These results will strengthen our Congressional sponsors' request for national expansion of the snack program in the 2007 Farm Bill," she continued. For more information, please contact Dr. DiSogra at (202) 303-3403.
United Fresh Produce Association
1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Suite 1100
Washington, DC 20006
Tel: 202 303 3400
Fax: 202 303 3433 united@unitedfresh.org
