IFPA calls for produce-first national health strategy after MAHA Commission report release

WASHINGTON, Sept. 9, 2025 – The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) BB #:378962 issued the following statement in response to the second report released today by the White House’s Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission:

“IFPA welcomes the publication of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s second report, which marks an important step in elevating nutrition as a national public health priority. We applaud the Commission’s recognition of the vital role ‘whole, healthy’ foods like fresh produce play in improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs. Simply put, you cannot make America healthy again without fruits and vegetables.

“Building on this momentum, IFPA urges policymakers to take bold, practical action. Our evidence-based policy recommendations call for the Department of Health and Human Services to embed produce prescriptions as a covered benefit within federal health programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, and the Department of Veterans Affairs; urge Congress and USDA to expand the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to all schools and improve fresh produce procurement options in feeding programs; ask FDA to prioritize clear and transparent front-of-pack labeling to help consumers make informed choices; and support all production systems including voluntary, incentive-based regenerative agriculture policies that focus on strengthening soil health, biodiversity and water efficiency while ensuring a sustainable produce supply.

“In the months ahead, IFPA will focus its efforts on both administrative and congressional pathways to make our recommendations a reality. The fresh produce industry stands ready to partner with the Trump administration, lawmakers, and nutrition and agricultural leaders to ensure every American has access to the fruits and vegetables they need for a healthier life.”

About the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA)
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain and the only to seamlessly integrate world-facing advocacy and industry-facing support. We exist to bring the industry together to create a vibrant future for all. We grow our members’ prosperity by conducting advocacy, connecting people and ideas; and offering guidance that allows us all to take action with purpose and confidence. IFPA represents member companies from small family businesses to the largest international corporations throughout the global fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain, including growers, shippers, fresh-cut processors, wholesalers, distributors, retailers, foodservice operators, industry suppliers and allied associations.

Contact: Sarah Gonzalez, sgonzalez@freshproduce.com, (202) 303-3411