Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/305

Frozen foods are having a moment – and the science, policy, and nutrition research behind them is more nuanced than most people realize. In this episode, we take a fresh (and frozen) look at how freezing works, why it matters for nutrition, and how frozen foods fit into today's evolving dietary guidance and food systems. From debunking persistent myths to exploring how frozen fruits and vegetables can support healthier eating patterns, reduce food waste, and improve access to nutrient-dense foods, this conversation connects the dots between research, real-world eating habits, and public health programs. We also dive into emerging policy efforts and pilot programs that recognize frozen produce as a powerful tool for improving food security and diet quality—especially for communities using SNAP and nutrition incentive programs. If you're curious about how frozen foods stack up nutritionally, practically, and sustainably, this episode offers a timely, evidence-based perspective.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• the science behind the freezing process
• how and why foods are frozen
• the benefits of frozen foods
• common myths about frozen foods
• what drives shoppers to purchase frozen foods
• how frozen foods fit in the context of evolving nutrition science and dietary guidelines
• nutritional equivalency of frozen foods compared to fresh or home prepared foods
• innovative ways to include frozen foods into a healthy diet
• how frozen produce can improve fruit and vegetable consumption
• how the frozen food industry supports food waste reduction
• GusNIP pilot to integrate frozen produce into the nutrition incentive program for SNAP participants
• SHOPP Act legislation that ensures frozen produce is represented in the Produce Prescription Program
• resources for health professionals and the public

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/304

Federal nutrition programs impact the lives of tens of millions of Americans each year, yet they are often misunderstood, politicized, or reduced to headlines without context. This episode unpacks what federal nutrition assistance programs actually do, why they matter, and how recent policy shifts are reshaping the nutrition safety net.

This conversation cuts through myths and confusion to explore how nutrition policy plays out in real life, for real people. We dig into the science, the policy decisions, and the downstream health implications, along with what health professionals and the public can do moving forward.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• An overview of federal nutrition assistance programs and who they serve
• The evolution from "food insecurity" to the broader concept of "nutrition security"
• The steepest rollback of nutrition assistance in decades
• Common myths about SNAP—and what the evidence actually shows
• The elimination of SNAP-Ed and why nutrition education matters
• The Thrifty Food Plan and how it determines benefit levels
• The role of school meals, including how many children rely on them and why they are critical
• How the newly released Dietary Guidelines for Americans shape federal nutrition programs
• What comes next: the public health implications of current policy changes
• Practical calls to action for registered dietitians, nutrition professionals, and the general public
• Resources for health professionals and the public

Full shownotes, transcript and resources here: https://soundbitesrd.com/303

The new Dietary Guidelines for Americans were released on January 7, 2026 by HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins. These new guidelines state that they had concerns with the DGAC report because it framed it's analysis through a health equity lens and therefore disregarded most of the report instead relying on their own independent report.

Tune in to this episode to learn about:

• · An overview of the new DGAs
• · The new upside down pyramid that replaces MyPlate
• · What has changed from the previous version and what has not changed
• · Hits, misses and inconsistencies
• · What the DGAs mean for people/families at home
• · What the DGAs mean for federal nutrition programs like school meals
• · What health professional organizations have to say about the new DGAs
• · Practical takeaways and tips for the public and health professionals
• · Resources for more information