American Frozen Food Institute Congratulates New Agriculture Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack

MCLEAN, VA –On behalf of the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), Interim President Robert L. Garfield congratulated Thomas J. Vilsack on being confirmed as the new Secretary of Agriculture.

In a letter transmitted on January 23, 2009, Garfield acknowledged the vital role the Agriculture Department plays in supplying Americans with food products, and welcomed the opportunity for AFFI to work with Secretary Vilsack and members of his team on issues involving food and especially that of frozen food. Garfield called attention to one federal feeding program that currently excludes frozen products from participation. Following are excerpts from the Garfield letter:

“In particular, frozen fruits and vegetables must be included in the USDA’s Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program. Despite a large body of evidence stating that frozen fruits and vegetables have been found to be nutritionally equivalent and, in some cases, superior to their fresh counterparts, frozen fruits and vegetables currently are excluded from the Fruit and Vegetable Snack Program.

“Deteriorating economic conditions, rising food cost and child hunger make it imperative that additional steps be taken to increase access to these programs by eligible children. In part, increased participation can be accomplished, where possible, with greater use of frozen produce. In addition to nutritional equivalences or superiority, frozens offer a lower cost option with longer shelf lives than “fresh” counterparts. By taking advantage of volume discounts, consumers can realize savings without compromising nutrition, menu choices or safety.

“Finally, convenience and safety are hallmarks of frozen produce. Frozen fruits and vegetables are easily transported and stored frozen, and are not subject to seasonal or regional limitations. Additionally, they conform to strict processing standards that enhance the safety of the product.”

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The American Frozen Food Institute is the national trade association promoting and representing the interests of all segments of the frozen food industry. AFFI works to foster industry development and growth, and advocates before legislative and regulatory entities on the industry’s behalf. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.affi.com/.