Food Bank of Iowa Troubled by USDA Decision to End Its Annual ‘Household Food Security’ Report

“It, all of a sudden, says that tracking and fighting hunger is not a priority, apparently, at the federal level.”

DES MOINES, Iowa (RFD-TV) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced its decision to end the Household Food Security Report during Hunger Action Month. A leader from the Food Bank of Iowa calls it another setback as they struggle to meet growing demand.

“It’s very troubling -- suddenly shelve a report that’s been trusted for three decades across multiple administrations,” said Annette Hacker, Chief Communications & Strategy Officer for the Food Bank of Iowa. “ It’s just…it’s disappointing, it’s troubling, and really it’s hard to understand. It, all of a sudden, says that tracking and fighting hunger is not a priority, apparently at the federal level.”

Regarding the reason for ending the annual report, the USDA cited the Household Food Security Report as “redundant” and “costly.” USDA officials also noted that the report was “politicized” as a means to justify significant increases in SNAP eligibility.

Hacker said the group will now consult Feeding America’s annual “Map the Meal Gap” report for its tracking, which comprises data collected by the group of 200 food banks located across the U.S.

Related Stories
Cuba remains a small but dependable, cash-only outlet for U.S. grain and food products.
Expanding cheese exports are strengthening U.S. milk demand and reinforcing global competitiveness.
Strong global demand and falling stocks suggest continued price volatility for U.S. coffee buyers despite record world production.
U.S. dairy producers remain the primary growth engine globally, while tightening supplies in Europe and New Zealand could support export demand for American dairy products.
Fewer acres and stronger prices suggest disciplined hop production is supporting market balance despite lower output.
Benchmark machinery costs against those of similar-sized, high-performing operations to inform equipment and investment decisions.
Record pace corn exports are helping stabilize prices despite softer global grain production and ongoing supply competition.
Broader export demand helps stabilize prices and supports stronger marketing opportunities over time.
A narrower Section 1071 rule could reduce regulatory pressure on ag lenders while keeping credit available in rural communities.