USDA Section 32 supports American farmers and food assistance
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced plans to purchase pork and several other food products for federal nutrition assistance programs across the United States. The purchases will be made under Section 32, a long-standing program that supports both American farmers and food assistance efforts.
While the announcement includes products such as canned peaches, Concord grape juice, fresh mandarins, prunes, raisins, walnuts, and wild-caught shrimp, pork is expected to be a major focus. The purchase aims to provide high-quality U.S. food products to schools, food banks, and other nutrition programs while helping strengthen demand for agricultural commodities.
The USDA said solicitations for the purchases will be released soon through its Web-Based Supply Chain Management (WBSCM) system. Interested vendors will need to use this online platform to access procurement opportunities, submit bids, and receive updates related to the contracts.
All products purchased under this initiative must be produced in the United States. According to USDA requirements, agricultural commodities must be grown, processed, and prepared for sale exclusively within the country. This ensures the program supports American farmers, processors, and rural communities.
The contracts are expected to be awarded on a firm-fixed-price basis, with deliveries made to locations throughout the United States. These products will then be distributed through federal food nutrition assistance programs that provide support to families and communities in need.
The announcement has been welcomed by the pork industry. National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman said the purchase will help deliver more wholesome, nutrient-dense protein to schools and food banks while supporting pork producers during challenging market conditions. He also praised USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and the administration for recognizing the importance of supporting both farm families and consumers.
National Pork Producers Council President Rob Brenneman, a pork producer from Washington County, Iowa, issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the pork purchase under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935.
“More high-quality, wholesome and nutrient dense protein is on its way to American schools and food banks across the country thanks to this purchase of U.S. pork. America’s pork producers applaud USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and the administration for this significant step in what is a challenging market -- and for recognizing the needs of farm country and Americans who deserve reliable sources of good food go hand in hand.”
Photo Credit: usda