Because Congress is unlikely to fund major federal dietary programs, Biden finds his hands largely tied…reports Asian Lite news
US President Joe Biden is hosting the White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health to catalyse action for the millions of Americans struggling with food insecurity and diet-related diseases like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension.
The Conference will lay out a transformational vision for ending hunger and reducing diet-related disease by 2030 – all while closing disparities among the communities that are impacted most.
The White House has announced billions of dollars in pledges from major corporations — including the likes of fast food behemoth Burger King — to craft a national strategy on ending the twin US challenges of hunger and obesity, Agence France-Presse reported.
Because Congress is unlikely to fund major federal dietary programs, Biden finds his hands largely tied. However, officials said he was using the power of the presidency to get major companies involved and that the response has been strong.
Officials briefing reporters said that $8 billion in public and private sector commitments already made include pledges from more than 100 organizations, ranging from hospitals to tech companies and food industry players, it was reported.
At least $2.5 billion will be invested in start-up companies that are pioneering solutions to hunger and food insecurity. Over $4 billion will be dedicated toward philanthropy that improves access to nutritious food, promotes healthy choices, and increases physical activity, the White House said in statement.
GE, the multinational energy, aerospace, and healthcare company, and food industry innovation specialists Food Systems for the Future are set to launch a $2.5 billion private investor coalition over the next three years.
The National Restaurant Association will expand a project aimed at getting children to eat healthier food at 45,000 more outlets, including at chains like Burger King.
IT and communications giant Cisco will contribute $500 million over five years for healthier meals and food production in areas where it does business, it was reported.
