The newly released Make Our Children Healthy Again (MAHA) report has brought national attention to a growing public health crisis. While the report focuses on the alarming rise in chronic diseases among children, its findings reflect a much broader issue—one that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.

From obesity and diabetes to autoimmune and neurodevelopmental disorders, chronic illness is becoming increasingly common. The report identifies four major drivers: ultra-processed diets, environmental toxins, sedentary lifestyles, and overmedicalization. These are not isolated problems—they are symptoms of a food and health system in need of transformation.

At Florida Organic Growers (FOG), we see this report as a powerful call to action. It affirms what we’ve long worked toward: a food system that supports health, equity, and sustainability for everyone.

Organic Agriculture as a Public Health Strategy

For over 30 years, FOG has been committed to advancing organic and sustainable agriculture as a solution to the systemic issues outlined in the MAHA report. We support farmers who grow food without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or hormones—practices that reduce toxic exposure and promote nutrient-rich, whole foods.

Through programs like the Southeast Transition to Organic Partnership Program (SE TOPP), we mentor farmers transitioning to organic practices, helping them build resilient operations that nourish both people and the planet. We also work to expand access to fresh, local food through initiatives like The Florida Local Food Project, which strengthens regional food systems by connecting farmers, food producers, and communities.

A System in Need of Balance

The MAHA report also highlights a troubling reality: despite the clear benefits of organic and whole foods, these crops receive just a fraction of federal agricultural funding. In the most recent Farm Bill, organic and specialty crops accounted for only 0.1% of total support.

This imbalance limits the reach of organic agriculture and keeps healthier food out of reach for many families. It also undermines the potential of organic farming to serve as a scalable, science-backed solution to our nation’s health and environmental challenges.

At FOG, we are committed to:

• Expanding access to organic food in underserved communities
• Supporting farmers with training, certification, and mentorship
• Advocating for policy change that prioritizes health, sustainability, and equity

A Shared Responsibility, A Global Vision

Thank you for your support in advancing organic and sustainable agriculture! At Florida Organic Growers, we’re committed to fostering connections among farmers, facilitating knowledge exchange, and advocating for sustainable farming practices. Together, we’re building a brighter future for food and farming.

We believe that everyone should have access to healthy, nutrient-dense foods free from harmful preservatives and synthetic chemicals. That belief drives our work not only across Florida, but also at the state, national, and international levels through our certification body Quality Certification Services (QCS).

The MAHA report is a wake-up call—not just for policymakers, but for all of us. It challenges us to rethink how we grow, distribute, and consume food. It asks us to invest in systems that support long-term wellbeing, not just short-term fixes.

Let’s work together to create a food system that truly supports the health of all people—starting from the ground up.