USDA Updates on Wheat Exports, School Meals, and SNAP Policies

This week’s biggest headline from the Department of Agriculture is the release of the June World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates report, signed by Secretary Brooke Rollins. This influential report—often called the gold standard for ag market data—sets the tone for both domestic and international grain markets. Secretary Rollins commented, “American agriculture leads the world, and the industry relies on gold standard statistics and analysis in USDA reports…to anticipate how American goods will be exported with the world.” This round, wheat export estimates for the coming crop year were bumped up to 820 million bushels, reflecting higher demand, while farm gate prices nudged up to $5.40 per bushel. Corn ending stocks have tightened slightly, which could signal firmer prices ahead. These numbers help farmers decide what to plant, businesses set contracts, and state governments estimate revenue projections—all while reinforcing the U.S. as a reliable food supplier worldwide.

In terms of policy updates, Secretary Rollins reinstated the July Cattle Report and County Estimates for numerous crops, reversing last year’s cancellation. This decision empowers farmers and ranchers with up-to-date local data, enhancing risk management and operational planning.

On the nutrition front, USDA announced phased changes to school meal nutrition standards, with limits on added sugars in cereals, yogurt, and flavored milk starting in the 2025-26 school year. Sodium will also be reduced, but those changes won’t start until fall 2025. Importantly, no menu changes are required for the upcoming 2024-25 school year. This gradual approach is designed to allow schools and food producers to adapt without disrupting students’ eating habits.

There’s also significant news for low-income Americans: Secretary Rollins approved state waivers to remove unhealthy foods from SNAP benefits in several states, signaling a push for healthier public nutrition while sparking debate on food choice and accessibility.

For ag producers, the Farm Service Agency announced June lending rates: direct Operating Loans at 5.0% and Ownership Loans at 5.75%. These rates provide a lifeline for farmers facing high input costs or seeking to expand, with additional tools and online resources available through USDA.

In USDA leadership, Judge Stephen Vaden was confirmed as Deputy Secretary, solidifying the department’s commitment to the “America First” agenda.

Looking forward, keep an eye on USDA’s implementation of school nutrition changes and further SNAP policy shifts. Producers and stakeholders can engage through their local USDA offices, use online tools like the Loan Assistance Tool, and participate in upcoming public comment periods as new rules roll out. For more information, head to USDA.gov or your local Service Center. If you have opinions on SNAP or school meal standards, now’s the time to share your thoughts as public input shapes the next round of changes.