WASHINGTON, (RFD-TV) — The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement is reshaping food policy in ways that bring both risks and opportunities for U.S. agriculture, according to new analysis from AgAmerica Lending.
Originating during Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s 2023 campaign and formalized with his confirmation as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HSS), and the founding of the MAHA Commission in 2025, the movement emphasizes nutrition over pharmaceuticals in addressing chronic disease, with ripple effects reaching farms and agribusiness.
Many in agriculture applaud the latest report from the commission, saying the findings show officials were listening to ag industry concerns over the previous report.
Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS), a founding member and chairman of the MAHA caucus, joined us on Thursday’s Market Day Report with his thoughts on the Commission’s latest report and standout issues related to the farming sector.
In his interview with RFD-TV’s own Suzanne Alexander, Sen. Marshall discussed his thoughts on health soil, the use of pesticides and their role in the MAHA movement, and insights on Congress’ push to fund the government before the upcoming deadline on Sept. 30. Lastly, Marshall shared tips and insights for farmers headed into harvest with concerns over heavy financial strain and market access.
Tony’s Farm-Level Takeaway: MAHA’s growing impact on food policy will likely challenge conventional practices but open doors for producers aligned with regenerative, organic, or local markets. Farmers should prepare for shifting consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and new federal incentives tied to nutrition and health outcomes.
For producers, MAHA’s influence has already surfaced in consumer demand for food free of seed oils, artificial dyes, and high-fructose corn syrup. Ag groups warn that changes could cut corn prices by as much as 34 cents per bushel if HFCS use declines, with broader risks tied to tighter input regulations on pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs.
At the same time, opportunities are emerging through “Food is Medicine” initiatives, streamlined organic certification, and new local markets for specialty crops, dairy, and regenerative practices. Expanded subsidies in the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” may help offset transition costs.
Dr. Jeffrey Gold, President of the University of Nebraska, joined Rural Health Matters to discuss dental care access and improvement efforts across rural America.
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