By Jamie Martin
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has allocated $4.5 million to create three additional USDA Nutrition Hubs across the nation. These Hubs will focus on precision nutrition and community engagement to address food and nutrition security, specifically targeting underserved populations.
The initiative is a continuation of USDA’s efforts under the ASCEND for Better Health program, which began with a pilot Nutrition Hub in collaboration with Southern University and A&M College.
The funding, provided by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture’s (NIFA) leading Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI), will support the Hubs in delivering science-based nutrition information to priority communities, including Tribal, Hispanic, and Insular Areas.
These hubs will not only provide education and extend research but also aim to diminish health disparities related to diet. Each Hub will operate under the principle of precision nutrition, which offers dietary guidance tailored to the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors of specific community groups.
The USDA’s move aligns with the White House Cancer Moonshot initiative, focusing on reducing cancer rates through improved diet and nutrition.
Applications for this competitive award are open until October 3, 2024, as the USDA seeks to foster a healthier, more informed population.
Photo Credit: usda
Categories: National