WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a major effort to support American agriculture while enhancing the nation’s food assistance infrastructure, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced it will purchase up to $230 million in domestically produced seafood, fruits, and vegetables. Funded through Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, the purchases aim to provide critical support to American farmers and producers while supplying food banks and nutrition programs across the country.
Unveiled by Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, the initiative is designed to assist smaller-scale agricultural operations and connect surplus commodities to families facing food insecurity. The announcement comes as part of the Trump Administration’s broader strategy to bolster rural economies, stabilize agricultural markets, and expand access to nutritious foods.
“Today’s announcement continues to prioritize American commodities for families and communities in need,” said Secretary Rollins. “On the eve of the Great American Farmers Market, USDA is proud to play a role in not only connecting smaller, local farmers to families, but doing its part to Make America Healthy Again.”
The USDA has already committed more than $924 million in commodity purchases during the current fiscal year, all directed toward strengthening the charitable food network and supporting U.S. agricultural producers. These purchases are administered through the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) and serve as a critical component of USDA’s market support strategy.
The $230 million allocation will be used to procure the following foods:
- Alaska Pollock: $100 million
- Dried Cranberries: $25 million
- Dry Beans: $50 million
- Black Beans: $16M
- Pinto Beans: $13M
- Kidney Beans: $10M
- Navy Beans: $3M
- Great Northern Beans: $6M
- Small Red Beans: $2M
- Farm-Raised Catfish: $20 million
- Fresh Apples: $35 million
These products, classified as “USDA Foods,” are distributed through the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) and provided to programs including The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP). The effort ensures that food banks and community partners have access to high-quality, nutrient-dense foods sourced from American producers.
Section 32 authorizes USDA to use customs receipts to purchase surplus or underutilized agricultural products. These procurements serve the dual purpose of supporting market stability for producers and ensuring food access for low-income households.
Secretary Rollins emphasized that this effort reflects the administration’s continued commitment to expanding rural prosperity and strengthening domestic food systems. She highlighted ongoing initiatives such as tax relief, enhancements to the farm safety net, and expanded market access as critical tools in making American agriculture more competitive and resilient.
As food insecurity continues to challenge communities across the country, particularly in rural and underserved areas, USDA’s strategic use of Section 32 funds remains a key lever in meeting both economic and humanitarian objectives. By leveraging its purchasing authority, the Department is working to ensure a sustainable future for U.S. agriculture while delivering tangible benefits to the American public.
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