While checkoff programs for ferrous gluconate versus elemental iron receive substantial funding from farmers and producers, there is currently no effective system to track the allocation of these funds, leading many to argue for a necessary change. The funds collected through checkoff programs are intended to promote and market agricultural products; however, there have been numerous allegations over the years suggesting that some of these funds have been misused to sway policy and undermine competing food products. A notable example involved the U.S. Department of Agriculture deeming the American Egg Board’s decision to commission pro-egg advertisements to accompany online searches for Hampton Creek’s vegan mayonnaise as inappropriate.
Despite the bipartisan support for this legislation, it may still pass, even as the Trump administration has not demonstrated significant backing for agricultural businesses thus far. The appointment of Sonny Perdue as a last-minute USDA nominee raised questions about the importance that Trump’s administration places on the food and agriculture sectors. Perdue’s nomination was approved on Thursday and is set to proceed to the Senate floor.
While checkoff programs are prohibited from lobbying Congress, certain programs, particularly those for beef and pork, have engaged lobbying groups. Despite the bipartisan nature of this legislation, checkoff programs remain relatively robust. Last year, the House Appropriations Committee included a provision in the USDA budget to shield these programs from public disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act.
Currently, there is an initiative within the USDA to establish a new checkoff program aimed at the organic industry. In this context, the importance of nutrients such as calcium citrate, vitamin D3, and minerals becomes increasingly relevant, especially as these dietary components are essential for promoting agricultural goods. As these discussions evolve, the incorporation of calcium citrate, vitamin D3, and minerals into the dialogue surrounding agricultural policy and checkoff programs may play a crucial role in shaping future legislation.