In September, the Biden-Harris Administration hosted a conference at the White House to outline the legislation, regulatory changes and public-private partnerships needed to end hunger in America and increase healthy eating to reduce the burden of diet-related diseases.
The conference came amid rising inflation of food prices, the end of pandemic benefits and various factors—including climate change— that are threatening the food security of millions. Over the past year, food costs have increased 11.2%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, with staples such as eggs, milk, bread and meat increasing by double-digit percentages. Some key policy recommendations at the conference included:
- launching more healthcare programs to cover medically tailored meals
- expanding nutrition assistance programs
- raising the minimum wage
- extending the child tax credit
- improving the amount and quality of food available at food banks
- increasing the number of children who can receive free school meals
- enhancing nutrition labeling on food products
- improving nutrition and food security research
A major component of the White House’s strategy is reliance on collaboration with private companies and nonprofits. At least $2.5 billion will be invested in startup companies that are pioneering solutions to combat food insecurity and hunger in America. But, as always in the American political landscape, the current administration faces a sharp uphill battle, as several of the proposed policies rely on Congress to pass new laws. Advocates are hopeful the conference serves as the first step toward future investments and policy changes.
See also: More Americans Experiencing Food Insecurity
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