Numerous Health Benefits Found in Summer-Favorite Watermelon

May 28, 2021 USDA ARS

Researchers in the USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) recently identified over 1,500 small molecules of diverse chemical characters in the fruit, known as phytochemicals. They concluded that eating watermelon is an excellent way to increase your intake of antioxidants, non-protein amino acids and lycopene. This means that every time you eat watermelon, you’ll be improving the health of your cells, organs and nervous system.

NFI Statement on USDA’s Decision to Purchase Nutritious Consumer-Ready Seafood

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today that it will purchase up to $159.4 million of seafood and other items as part of its Section 32 food assistance program. This purchase marks “the largest single seafood purchase in the Department’s history,” according to the agency.

USDA to Purchase $159.4 Million in Nutritious Consumer-Ready Seafood and More for Food Assistance Programs

May 13, 2021 USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced it will purchase up to $159.4 million in domestically produced seafood, fruits, legumes, and nuts for distribution to a variety of domestic food assistance programs, including charitable institutions.

U.S. and Mexico Keep Organic Trade Open

May 12, 2021 USDA

On May 7, 2021, Mexico’s agriculture secretariat (SADER) extended the deadline for U.S. organic exports to be certified to its Organic Products Law (LPO). U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack met with his counterpart Secretary Victor Villalobos, and they agreed to extend the compliance deadline to December 31, 2021.

USDA Seeks Nominees for the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board

May 5, 2021 USDA

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is seeking nominees for 12 dairy producer seats on the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board. Nominations are due May 31, 2021. Appointed members will serve three-year terms beginning Nov. 1, 2021, and ending Oct. 31, 2024.