Florida Food Economist Set to Shape National Health Policy: What It Means for You – Alachua Chronicle

Di Fang, an associate professor at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), has been awarded the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Health Policy Fellowship for 2025. This prestigious fellowship allows professionals in health and healthcare to work within the federal government, directly influencing national health policies in Washington, D.C.

Fang’s expertise lies in food economics, focusing on how food choices impact health and well-being. “This fellowship is a chance to engage in policymaking that can lead to real changes,” she explains. Her research aims to bridge the gap between food policy and health outcomes, particularly in programs that affect food purchasing behaviors.

She brings valuable experience in data-driven research to important health policy discussions. This experience will inform her future work at UF, benefiting both her teaching and research efforts.

Her research covers various topics, including how consumers view nutrition labels. This knowledge is crucial, especially as public understanding of food and health evolves.

The fellowship spans September 2025 to August 2026, during which Fang will join seven other fellows for training in health policy before working closely with a government official on real-world issues.

“Health policy is more relevant than ever as we consider the roles of federal and state governments in healthcare,” says Gregg Margolis, who leads the RWJF Fellowship program. Decisions made in upcoming years could significantly impact public health for generations.

Previous fellows have made strides in diabetes nutrition policy and contributed to various federal health committees. Following her fellowship, Fang aims to bring back insights that can enhance nutrition strategies in Florida.

This opportunity reflects a broader trend of integrating research with practical health solutions, emphasizing the crucial role of nutrition in public health, especially in light of recent data showing rising obesity rates and food-related illnesses in the U.S. An estimated 42% of adults in America are now classified as obese (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). By connecting policy with research, Fang hopes to drive meaningful change and better health outcomes for communities in Florida and beyond.



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