Federal Investments to Expand Protein Access at Food Banks

Federal investments to expand protein access at food banks

HHS and USDA invest $7.5M to strengthen cold chain infrastructure and support HATCH in redirecting surplus protein to families in need.

HHS, USDA Boost Protein Access

Introduction The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently announced major investments to improve protein access and strengthen cold chain infrastructure across the United States. The initiative aims to reduce food waste, improve nutrition security, and support families struggling to access healthy food options. The program includes a combined investment of up to $15 million. HHS wi…

HHS, USDA Announce Investments to Expand Protein Access, Strengthen Cold Chain Infrastructure

WASHINGTON—MAY 19, 2026—The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced a $7.5 million investment to expand Americans’ access to high-quality protein, strengthen nutrition security, and reduce food waste nationwide. Through a new agreement with HATCH for Hunger, HHS will support a national initiative to redirect surplus protein to families in need, improve health outcomes, and help reduce the burden of chronic disease. Thi…