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Rollins: farmers and ranchers hold the key to healthier diets

Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins says the new Dietary Guidelines for Americans place producers at the center of the nation’s nutrition priorities.

“By producing milk, raising cattle, chicken and pigs, and seafood, growing wholesome fruits and vegetables and grains, our farmers and ranchers hold the key to solving our national health crisis.”

At an event celebrating the implementation of standards on Wednesday, Rollins said healthier diets start with what U.S. farmers and ranchers produce. “The new guidelines encourage households, schools, homes, the military – all of the above – prioritize whole, nutrient dense foods.”

USDA also released new guidance for local and state directors of child nutrition programs to incorporate the DGAs. Rollins says the department will propose a school meals rule by mid spring to provide children access to healthy food.