Dairy Industry Voices Disappointment Over USDA's WIC Dairy Cuts
Source: The DairyNews
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) and the National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) have expressed disappointment with the final rule released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to update the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The rule maintains proposed cuts to dairy in WIC food packages, drawing concern from industry leaders about potential impacts on nutrition access for vulnerable populations.
Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF, emphasized the importance of dairy in providing essential nutrients, particularly for women, infants, and children. He highlighted that milk, cheese, and yogurt, three of the top redeemed items through WIC, offer critical nutrients identified in dietary guidelines. Doud underscored the significance of increasing access to nutrient-dense and affordable foods, expressing disappointment in the final rule's limitations on WIC family purchasing power for nutritious dairy products.
While acknowledging the rule's provisions for lactose-free milk and expanded product package sizes, IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes, D.V.M., raised concerns about the reduction in milk allotments and its potential impact on nutrition security. He noted survey findings indicating that a significant portion of WIC participants anticipate challenges in purchasing milk and dairy products due to the cuts. Dykes emphasized the importance of collaboration with USDA to leverage the rule's flexibilities for yogurt and cheese to mitigate the impact of the milk benefit reductions.
Both organizations highlighted the critical role of dairy in providing essential nutrients and supporting the health and well-being of WIC participants. They expressed readiness to work with USDA and other stakeholders to address concerns and ensure access to nutritious dairy foods for families enrolled in the program.
While acknowledging the rule's provisions for lactose-free milk and expanded product package sizes, IDFA President and CEO Michael Dykes, D.V.M., raised concerns about the reduction in milk allotments and its potential impact on nutrition security. He noted survey findings indicating that a significant portion of WIC participants anticipate challenges in purchasing milk and dairy products due to the cuts. Dykes emphasized the importance of collaboration with USDA to leverage the rule's flexibilities for yogurt and cheese to mitigate the impact of the milk benefit reductions.
Both organizations highlighted the critical role of dairy in providing essential nutrients and supporting the health and well-being of WIC participants. They expressed readiness to work with USDA and other stakeholders to address concerns and ensure access to nutritious dairy foods for families enrolled in the program.
