# Beyond fresh: implications of produce prescription policy for food systems transformation

## TL;DR

This paper discusses how a U.S. food policy limiting produce prescriptions to fresh fruits and vegetables may hinder food system transformation and suggests including frozen, canned, and dried options.

## Contribution

The paper proposes a policy revision to expand eligible produce types for broader food systems impact.

## Key findings

- Limiting produce prescriptions to fresh items may have unintended negative consequences.
- Including frozen, canned, and dried fruits and vegetables could enhance policy effectiveness.
- The suggested policy changes offer insights applicable to global food systems.

## Abstract

This commentary examines a United States food policy which limits produce prescriptions to fresh fruits and vegetables within the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program (GusNIP). We explore potential unintended consequences of this restriction and argue for expanding eligible types of fruits and vegetables to include frozen, canned, and dried options. A strategic policy revision for transforming food systems is provided, with insights that can be applied globally.