Improving SNAPDereck Deutz

Agricultural Industries & Marketing – International Agriculture

University of Minnesota

USDA Budget

Options to make SNAP more effective

• Mitigate food options for participants• Regulate high processed foods that

provide limited nutritional benefits• Soft drinks, candy, cookies, snack crackers, and

ice cream are food items and are eligible items. (USDA)

• Make applications less complicated• Incorporate farmers in food shelves

SNAP Participants

Prevalence of Diabetes & Obesity

Education • SNAP participants need to eat better foods to

prevent health complications down the road. • Require participants to take cooking classes• Basic ingredients – Cooking supplies –

• Improve home econ courses in high schools & colleges.

Community Food Shelves

• Community supported – Government affiliated• Allow farmers to bring in produce

• Provide tax breaks to participating farmers.• Much like donating to a charity

• Incorporates diversified agriculture & sustainability

Bottom Line

- The USDA needs to revise eligible foods and initiate tax break programs that allow farmers to grow food for community food shelves, which in turn, will provide SNAP participants with the basic essentials for a healthy and sustainable life.