Nutrition Programs

Overview

Although the United States has one of the most advanced food systems in the world, many Americans find it difficult to maintain a filling and nutritious diet. As a result, several federal programs have developed in an effort to assist those in need. The Food and Nutrition Service ("FNS"), a sub-agency of the United States Department of Agriculture, implements and oversees many of these programs, the primary focus of which are providing supplemental food to low-income individuals. However, in addition helping people get the food they need, there is an increasing focus on nutrition education, and helping people make decisions about the quality of the food they eat. These issues affect so many individuals that the FNS currently reports that one in five Americans are helped by nutrition programs. Most nutrition programs are targeted at a specific group of people who are deemed to face a higher risk of nutrition problems. The overview is designed to provide a brief description of the major federal nutrition programs and how they operate. Read the full overview

Note: Recently added resources are posted at the top of the applicable sections.

Major Statutes

Administrative Law Decisions

Congressional Research Service Reports

Agricultural Law Bibliography