By Jamie Martin
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) has started a bold new campaign reminding U.S. policymakers that fruits and vegetables are key to better health. The campaign, called “Fresh Produce for a Healthier America,” highlights the link between fresh produce, longer lives, and lower healthcare costs.
With slogans like “Before there were pharmacies, there were farms,” the campaign delivers a direct message: you can’t make America healthy again without fruits and vegetables. These messages are featured across digital media in Washington, D.C., aiming to influence health policy conversations.
The campaign builds on IFPA’s recommendations to the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission, which was created to address chronic diseases. IFPA’s proposals offer clear steps to increase access to fruits and vegetables nationwide.
One top recommendation is to add produce prescriptions as a benefit in federal healthcare programs. This means patients could receive fruits and vegetables as part of their care, helping prevent diseases linked to poor diet.
IFPA also supports expanding the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) to all school levels, helping children build healthy eating habits from a young age.
IFPA urges support for safe crop protection tools and regenerative agriculture practices that improve soil, water, and food security.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: National