MI SR0138

USDA excluded fresh white potatoes from WIC program eligibility on March 4, 2014, based on outdated 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

2010 updated Dietary Guidelines recommend increased starchy vegetable consumption for women and children, including fresh white potatoes, which conflicts with the exclusion.

WIC participants consume only 2.1 percent of calories from fresh white potatoes compared to 2.4 percent for non-WIC participants, contradicting the rationale for exclusion.

Fresh white potatoes are cholesterol-free, fat-free, sodium-free, and provide potassium, vitamin C, fiber, and foliage while being cost-effective for WIC participants.

Senate urges the President and USDA Secretary to reverse the exclusion and encourage consumption of all fresh fruits and vegetables to help WIC participants meet nutritional recommendations.