Agricultural Organizations Applaud MAHA Commission’s Focus on Health, Innovation, and Sustainability
September 9, 2025 The recent release of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission’s “Make Our Children Healthy Again” Strategy has drawn widespread support from leading agricultural organizations across the country. These groups welcomed the report’s strong emphasis on aligning agriculture, nutrition, and environmental sustainability to promote a healthier future for America’s children. From recognizing the power of precision agriculture to highlighting the foundational importance of soil health and fresh produce, agricultural stakeholders are praising the Commission’s vision while also calling for continued collaboration and science-based policymaking.
ARA Praises Revised MAHA Commission Report for Supporting Innovation in Agriculture
The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) has expressed strong support for the revised policy report released by the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission under the Trump Administration. ARA President and CEO Daren Coppock praised the report’s “common-sense, forward-thinking recommendations” that embrace agricultural innovation and environmental stewardship. He noted the Commission’s recognition of vital tools such as precision agriculture technologies that boost productivity and sustainability in American farming.
“The Agricultural Retailers Association extends its sincere appreciation to the White House and the MAHA Commission for their engagement with the agricultural industry throughout this process,” said Coppock. “We look forward to continuing our collaboration with federal stakeholders to deliver lasting economic and environmental benefits for rural communities.”
Modern Ag Alliance Warns Against Misconceptions in MAHA Strategy
While acknowledging improvements in the MAHA Commission’s updated “Make Our Children Healthy Again” Strategy, the Modern Ag Alliance (MAA) remains concerned about lingering misconceptions that could threaten access to essential crop protection tools. The group warned that even without immediate restrictions, the report’s language could influence future regulations in ways that undermine science-based standards.
“It’s clear that farmers’ voices were finally heard, but our work to defend their access to safe and proven crop protection tools is far from over,” said Elizabeth Burns-Thompson, Executive Director of MAA. She emphasized the importance of maintaining rigorous, science-backed evaluations led by agencies like the EPA, which already enforces one of the most robust regulatory frameworks in the world. MAA called on policymakers to uphold real-world, science-based standards to protect farmers, food affordability, and family farms across the country.
Equipment Manufacturers Highlight Role of Precision Agriculture
The Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) was among the first to commend the Commission’s recognition of precision agriculture technology. Kip Eideberg, AEM’s senior vice president of government and industry relations, emphasized the significant benefits of these technologies in creating a healthier environment.
“Precision agriculture technology not only enhances agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability but also improves public health outcomes by reducing the amount of pesticides applied, improving air and water quality, and supporting the production of more nutritious food,” said Eideberg. He reiterated AEM’s commitment to working alongside the MAHA Commission to promote the adoption of precision ag as part of a national strategy to improve health and resilience.
The Fertilizer Institute Stresses Soil Health and Stewardship
The Fertilizer Institute (TFI) echoed the Commission’s message, welcoming the renewed focus on the link between soil health and public health. The organization emphasized its longstanding support for sustainable farming practices through the 4R nutrient stewardship framework—applying the right source of nutrients at the right rate, right time, and right place.
“We are only as healthy as the soil our food comes from,” stated TFI, underscoring the importance of conservation practices such as cover cropping and no-till farming. TFI also urged Congress to maintain conservation funding and prioritize farmer education in upcoming Farm Bill discussions. The Institute expressed gratitude to the Trump Administration and the MAHA Caucus for the collaborative approach in shaping the report.
Oilseed Processors Urge Continued Focus on Science
The National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) voiced appreciation for the report’s alignment with scientific consensus, especially regarding the safety and security of the U.S. food system. Devin Mogler, NOPA’s President and CEO, applauded the administration’s transparency and engagement with industry stakeholders throughout the process.
“While this report represents a step in the right direction, NOPA will remain vigilant in addressing policies and public statements that stoke fear based on misinformation rather than sound science,” Mogler stated, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to science-based discourse.
Western Growers Applaud Produce-Centric Policy Shift
Western Growers celebrated what it sees as a long-overdue shift in U.S. food policy, particularly the increased emphasis on fresh produce and innovation in agriculture. President and CEO Dave Puglia praised the MAHA Commission for cutting regulatory red tape and supporting research that benefits specialty crop growers.
“The Commission has created a roadmap that fosters innovation in much-needed research necessary to protect and strengthen the ability of American growers to provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts,” Puglia noted. He welcomed the policy disruption as a positive move and expressed eagerness to collaborate with the Administration and Commission to further strengthen agriculture’s role in public health.
Wheat Growers Defend Crop Protection Tools and Grain Nutrition
The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) issued a response to the MAHA Commission’s second draft report, emphasizing the essential role of crop protection tools in sustainable wheat production. NAWG President Pat Clements highlighted that these tools are critical for managing pests, diseases, and weeds, which directly affect crop yield and quality. “Without them, our farmers would face serious challenges in meeting demand, which would ultimately impact consumers through higher prices and reduced availability,” said Clements. He urged the Commission to support policies that balance productivity with environmental stewardship.
NAWG also pushed back on the report’s framing of enriched and refined grains as “ultra-processed,” warning against broad generalizations that overlook their nutritional contributions. “Products like bread, pasta, and cereals are key sources of fiber, iron, folic acid, and other essential nutrients,” said Clements. “They’re often fortified to help fill critical nutrient gaps, especially in underserved populations.”
Reaffirming its commitment to science-based policymaking, NAWG called for continued collaboration with the MAHA Commission to ensure that farmers have the tools and flexibility needed to produce safe, affordable, and nutritious food for all Americans.
A New Chapter in Agriculture and Public Health
As the MAHA Commission’s strategy gains traction, these organizations stand ready to partner in advancing a vision where agriculture not only feeds the nation but also nourishes it. Whether through cutting-edge technology, stewardship of natural resources, or expanded access to nutritious foods, the agricultural sector is uniting behind the shared goal of making America—and its children—healthier than ever before.
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