USDA Ends Key Food Security Report Amid Nutrition Assistance Cuts

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the discontinuation of the annual Household Food Security Report after the 2024 edition.

The report, produced for nearly 30 years, has been a key data source on food insecurity in the U.S. Its end will challenge journalists, policymakers, and advocates who rely on its comprehensive data to track hunger trends among adults and children. This decision coincides with significant federal cuts to nutrition assistance programs like SNAP and WIC, which serve millions of Americans and are set to lose funding starting in 2027 or sooner, depending on state implementation. Additionally, new Medicaid work requirements set to begin in 2027 in 41 states plus D.C. will impact adult Medicaid recipients by mandating 80 hours of work or qualifying activities monthly, with possible exemptions. These policy shifts come at a time when food banks nationwide report increasing demand and dwindling resources.

USDA funding reductions have already led to fewer food bank supplies of essential items such as produce and meat in several states, straining capacity to meet hunger needs. The Household Food Security Report has historically provided robust, longitudinal data critical for understanding food hardship fluctuations, including during economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic. USDA officials have stated the report is redundant and that alternative data sources will be used, though none have been specified.

Experts caution that the lack of this gold-standard data source may hinder the evaluation of the impact of upcoming policy changes and nutrition assistance cuts. This development raises concerns about monitoring food insecurity trends amid a deteriorating assistance environment and escalating community need.