USDA Cuts DEI Funding, Boosts Global Trade, and Updates Nutrition Standards

Welcome to the Ag Watch podcast, where we break down the latest headlines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and what they mean for you. This week’s biggest news comes straight from Washington: USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins announced the termination of more than 145 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion awards, resulting in a savings of nearly $149 million. The department states this move is aimed at “putting core agriculture first,” as Secretary Rollins explained, with a renewed focus on traditional farming priorities. This decision has sparked strong reactions—critics worry about support for underserved communities while supporters cheer the budget realignment as overdue.

On the international front, American farmers just got a boost. The USDA secured expanded market access for U.S. agricultural products in Thailand and Vietnam. Thailand has reopened its doors to apples from the eastern U.S.—that’s expected to add $5 million in annual exports. Meanwhile, Brazil has lifted its suspension on American whey protein concentrate after quick action from USDA offices. Last year, the U.S. exported $83 million worth of this product to Brazil. These trade wins are significant for U.S. producers and mean broader choice and potentially more stable prices for consumers.

Domestically, new nutrition standards for school meals will begin phasing in, starting with limits on added sugars for cereals, yogurt, and flavored milk in 2025, and progressing to broader limits by 2027. Importantly, there will be no immediate menu changes required for the coming 2024-25 school year, giving schools and food companies time to adapt. The USDA promises ongoing funding and technical support for schools during the transition.

In crop news, the USDA’s latest report pegs both corn and wheat supplies lower than expected, with wheat production forecast up 2% from last year. Farmgate prices are projected at $4.20 per bushel for corn and $5.40 for wheat, slightly higher than previous forecasts. These changes could mean higher prices at the grocery store, but also improved margins for American producers.

Looking ahead, watch for new dietary guidelines from the USDA set to release later this year—these will impact everything from school lunches to SNAP benefits. For those wanting to engage, USDA is hosting public comment periods on upcoming rule changes and is actively inviting feedback from families, schools, and industry.

For more information, check out USDA’s press releases online or visit your local USDA office. If you’re a parent, a farmer, or just a citizen who cares about the food on your table, now is a great time to get informed and make your voice heard. Stay tuned for more updates next week on Ag Watch.