Oct 19, 2012 9:48 AM

The fresh fruit and vegetable industry has a profound effect on all 50 US states, according to updated state profiles released by the United Fresh Produce Association and provided to Congress at the Washington Public Policy Conference recently. Data in the series reveals that all 50 states grow and sell fresh produce, and the profiles also include acreage, farms, employment, and production value for each state.

“The state profiles highlight the impact that the fresh produce industry has on the health and economy of every state in the country,” said Robert Guenther, United Fresh senior vice-president of public policy.

Profiles examine each state’s share of the Farm Bill Specialty Crop Block Grants, WIC program funding, and funding allotment for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, showcasing projects and success stories for each.

State profiles also detail the impact of adult and childhood obesity and diabetes in each state, as well as the number of participants in federal feeding programs. These include the National School Breakfast and Lunch programs; the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC); and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the Food Stamp Program. Data used in the reports come from federal and industry research sources.

Profiles are available free of charge at www.unitedfresh.org.