By Katie Hogan, ASU sustainable food systems graduate student
In a groundbreaking three-day event, students in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) NextGen program stepped into the shoes of food policy decision-makers, engaging in an immersive learning experience designed to prepare future food systems leaders who will shape food and nutrition policy.
The event provided a hands-on approach for participants to grasp the intricacies of USDA operations while engaging in thought-provoking scenarios. Through an accelerated rule-making simulation, students navigated the complexities of implementing the pilot programs outlined in S.1421 - the Food and Nutrition Education in Schools Act of 2021.
During the simulation, students represented and advocated for their assigned stakeholder roles, including representatives from various government offices, the media, and industry groups. Throughout the event, students worked collaboratively to explore:
- Bridging Public Policy, Education, and Innovation
- Navigating the Complexities of Food Policy
- Stakeholder Engagement and Experiential Learning
Balancing public health with industry interests
One of the event's highlights was the immersive policy simulation, which facilitated debates on pressing issues in school nutrition. Students role-playing as stakeholders from organizations, such as the Office of Management and Budget's Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA), National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA), National Dairy Council (NDC), and USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), tackled school meal policies and industry’s involvement in the S.1421 pilot program. Students debated the role of alternative proteins, the economic impact of ultra-processed foods on farmers, and the need for policies that balance public health goals with industry realities. Discussions also explored using BMI as a measure of success, and the OIRA Deputy Administrator enforced the new Administration’s priorities, aligning regulations with economic objectives.
From night one, students advocating as NCBA and NDC leaders were in early agreement on the value of micronutrients such as B12, zinc, and iron, and at the start of day two, they approached “the media” for a simulated press release.
On day two, a simulated foodborne illness outbreak added a layer of urgency to the discussions. The hypothetical scenario, in which dozens of students were hospitalized due to contamination in school cafeterias, forced participants to confront the real-world consequences of food safety in schools.
This simulated crisis challenged student stakeholders on the need for more substantial food safety measures and accountability in school meal programs. Public health officials, parents, and community leaders raised questions about regulatory oversight, the adequacy of food safety regulations, and the accountability of the food industry. This crisis simulation underscored the importance of ensuring food safety protocols and policy reforms.
Expanding nutrition education & public awareness
A strong emphasis emerged throughout the simulation on the crucial role of essential nutrients in school nutrition programs. Students representing the NCBA and the NDC advocated for beef, veal, and dairy as primary micronutrient sources while acknowledging the importance of alternative proteins and lactose-free dairy options to meet diverse dietary needs and religious considerations. According to OIRA, the Executive Office “sees more nutritional value in beef and veal products rather than alternative proteins.”
NDC feels that “Kids should have options,” and more nutritional details on lactose-free vs. dairy-free options must be available. Alternate milks have allergens, and “Kids aren’t going to be in school forever, so it’s important for them to learn nutritional values now so they have long-term skills for making good choices throughout their lives.”
Students role-playing as task force members actively debated whether federal grants should extend beyond the 50 states to embrace U.S. territories and commonwealths, highlighting a push for inclusivity. They discussed in depth what age groups should be the focus, how many hours of education should be allowed, and how to build awareness of grant funding.
There was also a push to make nutrition education more engaging using taste-based messaging. NCBA wants people to know where their food comes from and recommends experiential learning opportunities, such as farm visits, to connect children with food sources.
OIRA, the Under Secretary for USDA Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services, and the Sysco President met to discuss the importance of inclusive communication. Often, people hear the topic of health and wellness and tune out, but the Under Secretary stressed, “Taste is universal, and communicating through your tastebuds speaks to all!”
Final thoughts
This inaugural event highlights the importance of collaboration among policymakers, industry leaders, and community advocates. This experience immersed students in the world of food policy and reinforced the importance of experiential learning in preparing students for future careers in food systems.
This blog is part of a series written by ASU graduate students who role-played as journalists in the Swette Center's inaugural Model USDA, held virtually from January 31 to February 2, 2025.