Pasteurization Destroys HPAI and USDA on Healthy School Meals

**The FDA confirmed again that pasteurization of milk consistent with the federal Grade "A" Pasteurized Milk Ordinance destroys harmful pathogenic bacteria and other microorganisms, including Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.

The data is consistent with other studies demonstrating the legally required temperature and time for milk pasteurization will readily inactivate HPAI.

Viral fragments detected after pasteurization are evidence the virus is dead and has zero impact on human health.

**Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced major steps to promote the health of America's children through school meals.

Nutrition standards for school meals will be gradually updated to include less sugar and flexibility with menu planning between Fall 2025 and Fall 2027.

The USDA arrived at these changes after listening closely to public feedback and considering the latest science-based recommendations from the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

**About 13% of U.S. farms participated in Federal crop insurance programs in 2022, with the highest share from small family farms.

USDA’s Economic Research Service reports small family farms accounted for 54% of the participants in Federal crop insurance programs and received 12% of the insurance payments, while harvesting 26% of all cropland acres.

Mid-to-large-scale family farms accounted for 42% of Federal

crop insurance participants but harvested 67% of the cropland acres.