USDA Announces $30 Million Fresh Fruit Purchase to Support Farmers and Food Banks
The U.S. agricultural sector is receiving a significant boost with a new USDA initiative aimed at supporting both American farmers and families in need. US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins revealed that the USDA will purchase $30 million in fresh fruit from domestic producers, supplying food banks and nutrition assistance programs across the country. This strategic purchase supports farmers facing economic challenges while ensuring fresh, nutritious fruit reaches communities that need it most.
Secretary Rollins emphasized the importance of helping farmers recover and strengthening the nation’s food supply chain. She stated, “President Trump is standing with America’s farmers, especially right now while the farm economy recovers from years of neglect under the last administration. Certain commodities are experiencing a surplus and USDA is ensuring these crops do not go to waste and instead go to Americans in need across the country. These fresh fruits will reach those in need, boosting healthier options for Americans at food banks across the country, all while benefitting American farmers facing unfair actions from foreign competitors.”
This initiative is administered through USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), which purchases agricultural products under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935. The fresh fruit—consisting of $15 million in oranges, $10 million in grapefruits, and $5 million in mandarins—will be distributed through the Food and Nutrition Service’s nutrition assistance programs. These programs continue to play a vital role in supporting millions of Americans by providing access to healthy foods during times of economic strain.
The USDA’s decision not only stabilizes markets experiencing surplus, but also enhances the quality of foods available in food banks nationwide. Fresh produce is often one of the most-needed items, and this purchase ensures that families across the United States can enjoy wholesome, vitamin-rich fruits.
As the nation works to maintain a resilient food system, initiatives like this highlight ongoing efforts to support agricultural producers while promoting nutrition security for all Americans.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.