The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today that it intends to purchase up to $263 million in dairy and other agricultural products from American farmers. The food will be distributed to food banks and nutrition assistance programs nationwide through USDA’s Section 32 authority.
The purchases include butter ($75 million), cheddar cheese and cheese products ($32.5 million), Swiss cheese ($10 million), fresh fluid milk ($20.5 million), ultra-high temperature milk ($10 million), chickpeas ($12 million), dried black and pinto beans ($25 million), fresh pears ($15 million), lentils ($14 million), pecans ($10 million), split peas ($24 million), and walnuts ($15 million).
Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the initiative will help stabilize farm income, support rural jobs, and strengthen the nation’s food supply while delivering nutritious food to Americans in need.
“From milk and dairy to fruits, legumes, and tree nuts, these staples are essential for feeding families and sustaining America’s agricultural economy,” said Secretary Brooke Rollins. “Through these Section 32 purchases, USDA is delivering wholesome, real food to Americans while injecting critical dollars into local economies. By turning harvests into meals, we are not only stabilizing farm income and protecting rural jobs—we are nourishing our nation and supporting the farmers who feed America. Under President Trump’s leadership, these investments strengthen the food supply, sustain rural communities, and reinforce agriculture as a cornerstone of economic resilience.”
Dairy leaders welcomed the announcement.
“Dairy farmers have shared in the struggles faced throughout the agricultural economy, and these purchases will provide important relief to producers who will benefit from the additional demand, helping them provide nutritious dairy products to Americans and the world,” said Gregg Doud, president and CEO of the National Milk Producers Federation.
The purchases will be made by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service and distributed through programs administered by the Food and Nutrition Service, including The Emergency Food Assistance Program.
