As several states weigh suspending SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown, the USDA is releasing the final edition of the Household Food Security Report—a national report card on the state of food insecurity in the U.S. In this episode: Maureen Black, whose career in nutrition spans decades, explains why losing the annual report could set back nutrition efforts as millions of Americans struggle to access healthy food.

Maureen Black, PhD, is a pediatric psychologist who has made significant contributions to the intersection of child development and nutrition. She previously chaired the Division of Growth and Nutrition at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Stephanie Desmon, MA, is a former journalist, author, and the director of public relations and communications for the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs.

• SNAP benefits to halt in some states amid government shutdown—ABC News

• USDA cancels survey tracking how many Americans struggle to get enough food—NPR

• Why SNAP Matters and How We Can Help—Bloomberg American Health Initiative

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Note: These podcasts are a conversation between the participants, and do not represent the position of Johns Hopkins University.