By Jamie Martin
The USDA has announced a $4.5 million investment to establish three new Nutrition Hubs aimed at improving food security and reducing diet-related chronic diseases in underserved communities. This initiative reflects the USDA’s commitment to equitable access to healthy food and improved well-being for all Americans.
“Nutrition security means everyone has consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe, affordable foods essential to optimal health and well-being,” stated Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.
The new hubs expand the network built on the pilot Nutrition Hub established last year at Southern University. These hubs are part of USDA's ASCEND for Better Health initiative, supporting scalable approaches to tackle nutrition-related disparities.
Located at the University of Hawaii, Texas A&M AgriLife Research, and Utah State University, the hubs focus on tailored strategies for specific populations. The University of Hawaii's Pacific Nutrition Hub will address unique cultural and biological needs in Native communities.
Texas A&M will prioritize Hispanic communities, reducing disparities through targeted programs. Utah State University will work on collaborative solutions to structural barriers affecting access to nutritious foods.
Dr. Chavonda Jacobs-Young, USDA's Chief Scientist, emphasized the importance of partnerships, stating, “USDA’s Land-grant University partners are the perfect place to house these hubs because of their experience in community building.”
The hubs also integrate precision nutrition, tailoring dietary approaches based on individual characteristics, including genetics, environment, and health status. This interdisciplinary initiative will foster collaboration between scientists and stakeholders to develop practical, science-based solutions.
Learn more about USDA’s efforts to transform food systems and improve access to healthy foods at www.usda.gov.
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Categories: National