This article looks at the history and importance of U.S. preference policies in food procurement, focusing on their role in supporting American farmers and food security.
The ‘Buy American’ Policy: A Brief History
The U.S. has prioritized domestic food sourcing for nearly 100 years. This focus began during the Great Depression when the Buy American Act of 1933 required federal agencies to favor U.S. goods. Just a few years later, the Berry Amendment of 1941 mandated that the Department of Defense procure food and supplies from American sources, a rule still applicable today.
After World War II, legislation linked support for U.S. farmers directly to public feeding programs. The Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935 established a framework to use U.S. agricultural surpluses for nutrition programs. This groundwork led to the National School Lunch Act of 1946, which aimed not only to improve child nutrition but also to ensure a steady demand for local products.
In the years that followed, Congress reinforced these domestic sourcing rules. The William F. Goodling Child Nutrition Reauthorization Act of 1998 explicitly required schools to buy domestic foods whenever possible. Recent executive orders, including one from 2021, further emphasized the importance of purchasing American-grown food, recognizing its positive impact on the economy and food security.
Federal Expenditure on U.S. Foods
In fiscal year 2025, the federal government spent $6.9 billion on U.S.-grown food, which, while a small fraction of total household food spending, plays a significant role in stabilizing the market. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) represented over half of this spending, followed by the Department of Defense.
The demand for American food fluctuates. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, federal purchases soared to $11 billion as emergency programs unfolded. Government data show that while meat and poultry account for the largest share of these purchases, fruits and vegetables also play a key role.
New Insights and Trends
Recently, consumer preferences are shifting towards locally sourced foods, with many Americans expressing a willingness to pay a premium for them. According to a 2022 survey by Nielsen, nearly 70% of consumers said they prioritize products made in the USA. This trend is echoed on social media platforms where hashtags like #BuyLocal and #SupportSmallFarmers are trending, reinforcing the desire for sustainable purchasing decisions.
Experts suggest that as this movement grows, it could lead to a more robust local economy, ultimately benefiting farmers and communities alike. Agriculture experts argue that reinforcing domestic procurement policies will not only aid current farmers but also encourage new farmers to enter the market.
By understanding the historical context of the Buy American policy alongside current trends, we can appreciate its ongoing impact on American agriculture and food supply. For more detailed statistics, you can explore resources like USAspending.gov for a closer look at federal spending patterns.
