The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions.

Full Comments

November 6, 2013 Ms. Shanta Swezy Chief, Retailer Management and Issuance Branch Retailer Policy and Management Division, SNAP Food and Nutrition Service, USDA 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 426 Alexandria, VA 22302 Re: Request for Information: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility (Docket No: 2013-20244) Dear Ms. Swezy: 1 The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions. The supermarket industry, which FMI represents, is proud to be a private sector partner with federal and state governments in an effective, efficient way of reducing hunger and improving access to food for our nation’s poor. FMI offers the following comments and observations to the agency in response to the Request for Information. Is ensuring that SNAP retailers provide SNAP clients access to healthy food choices a reasonable priority for establishing SNAP store eligibility criteria? Although the SNAP Program is primarily a hunger program and nutrition counseling and access to health services are provided to recipients through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP recipients should have the ability to purchase a wide variety of nutritious, economical foods for their families. This is achieved through depth of stock in store offerings and by public nutrition education. Are there store types that clearly meet all of the Program goals and, consequently, should always be eligible for SNAP participation? 1 Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org and for information regarding the FMI foundation, visit www.fmifoundation.org. N ovember 6, 2013 Page 2 When evaluating the types of stores that should be approved for SNAP participation, USDA should consider the availability and affordability of foods in all departments. The definition of a supermarket is a retail store that sells a variety of food products, including some perishable November 6, 2013 2 items and general merchandise. FMI believes that if a retailer wishes to apply for a SNAP license, they should have the right to be evaluated, as long as they adhere to the responsibilities, rules and spirit associated with the SNAP program. Ms. Shanta Swezy Chief, Retailer Management and Issuance Branch Retailer Policy and Management Division, SNAP Conversely, are there store types that do not effectively improve access to food choices Food and Nutrition Service, USDA (e.g. stores that sell low amounts of food when compared to the amounts of distilled 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 426 liquor, tobacco and/or lottery tickets sold) and, therefore, should always be ineligible for Alexandria, VA 22302 SNAP participation? Re: Request for Information: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) It would make no sense to authorize a store without the depth and variety of products needed Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility (Docket No: 2013-20244) by a customer. However, a retailer that sells legal products and follows the rules within the scope of the law should always have the right to apply and be evaluated for a SNAP license. Dear Ms. Swezy: 1 The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of Would a different definition of the ‘‘staple foods’’ required in SNAP authorized stores Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program help to ensure that these stores offer more healthy food choices? If so, what kinds of (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and changes would be most effective? Specifically, almost all foods can be counted towards abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions. meeting staple food requirements, including those high in added sugar, sodium or solid fats. Should foods high in these components be counted as staple foods when The supermarket industry, which FMI represents, is proud to be a private sector partner with determining store authorization requirements? federal and state governments in an effective, efficient way of reducing hunger and improving access to food for our nation’s poor. Defining “staple foods” is a daunting task for a program that is geared toward feeding hungry people in a variety of geographic regions and climates. What may be deemed a “staple” in one FMI offers the following comments and observations to the agency in response to the Request region may not be in another area, yet to administer a state-by-state list of “staple” products for Information. would be next to impossible. As you know, the WIC program already identifies specific special supplemental foods that clients may have nutritional deficiencies in and authorizes their purchase and requires authorized retailers to stock. The mission of the prescription-based WIC Is ensuring that SNAP retailers provide SNAP clients access to healthy food choices a program should not be confused with the mission of the hunger focused SNAP program. reasonable priority for establishing SNAP store eligibility criteria? Furthermore, FMI opposes any efforts to create a more complicated shopping process for SNAP Although the SNAP Program is primarily a hunger program and nutrition counseling and access customers, or to provide potential complexities for supermarkets to determine, program for, and to health services are provided to recipients through the Special Supplemental Nutrition enforce limitations on, the eligibility of products, given the countless number of newly introduced Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP recipients should have the ability to 3 or changing items throughout the store in an ongoing basis. There would be policy questions purchase a wide variety of nutritious, economical foods for their families. This is achieved surrounding which entity would make the product determination, maintain a list of ineligible through depth of stock in store offerings and by public nutrition education. products broken down to the subcategory product level (i.e. a UPC database), and keep that list 4 updated with hundreds of new products entering the marketplace every day. Are there store types that clearly meet all of the Program goals and, consequently, should always be eligible for SNAP participation? 2 FMI Definition of Terms: http://www.fmi.org/research-resources/fmi-research-resources/food-industry- glossary/%27g%27-supermarket-terms 1 3 Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through http://www.fmi.org/facts_figs/?fuseaction=superfact programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable An average of 20,000 new products are introduced each year. benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store 4 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org and for information regarding the FMI fhttoup:/nda/www.ftion, visitm iww.org/fw.fmaciftsou_fndigasti/?fon.usorgea. ction=superfact NNovovember ember 66,, 20201313 PPagage e 32 WDo thewn elveeval uaitemsting t(hethe t ymipenims of ustm oraesmoun that tsho neceuld ssbeary aptprovo meeed tf oSrN SANPA auP pthartoriicizapatitonion ,cri USterDiAon A, shoby viruld consitue of denered theing av taihrlabeei lvaity rianetd afies fiordabin the lfiouty or fdif foofedsrent in al stapl delpae frootmd caents.t egTheori deesfi)ni ptrovideion of a adsupeqermuaate varrket is ietya r efotair la st rore etaitlhaer tt selo furls ta vhearier thety Porf ogfooram’d prods puuctsrpos, ine?clud Ifi ngno some t, whapet wrioushaldbl bee a November 6, 2013 2 more items anapd proprgeneiateral mrequerchirement?andise. FM I believes that if a retailer wishes to apply for a SNAP l icense, they should have the right to be evaluated, as long as they adhere to the rFuespll servonsiibice glities, roceryrules s tanores prd spirovit iassode theciated grea wtestith t vhearie StNy AoPf f ooprodg atra mthe. most competitive prices so Ms. Shanta Swezy t hat SNAP recipients may shop as all other customers do. In fact, the average grocery store Chief, Retailer Management and Issuance Branch 5 carr ies some 38,718 products , which also include thousands of foods that are considered Retailer Policy and Management Division, SNAP Cimonpovertanrselt to y,m areaintai thenirne sg a tore healtypthyes di tetha. tFM doI nosupt peortffecs tproposaively improvels to increas accee tsshe to m fooinimd uchmoices Food and Nutrition Service, USDA (ve.garie. tsies intores t hetha fout ser dill flfoerwen atmoun staple tsf ooofds foogroups.d whe n compa FMI also suppored to trhets FNamoS unconts ofside rdingist itlheled 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 426 qliuaqunortit,y t obof acindcoividu anad/orl items lottserytock tedick ietsn the so vlaried) anties od, thef theref sotre,apl e shfoooudl dg raloupways ens be surinineg custligibloe mforers Alexandria, VA 22302 conSNAsiPst paenrttlyi chaipave accesstion? to each item. Re: Request for Information: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ICt urrentlwould my,ak rete anoile senrs wse ho are to autauhotrhoize a rizedsto rune wdeithor criut tteherion de pAt h andare requ varieiredty o tfo p stockroducts pe nerishedabed le Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility (Docket No: 2013-20244) byite ms a cust(e.gom., erfresh. How, froevzeern or , a rereftairiler getharatted sel flrus liegtsal an producd vegetabts anldes fol; dalowiry;s the meats rules , wpoithiuln ttryhe an d fscopish; e obreaf thed or law ce shoreaul)l d alin twwayo cas hategve torheies r.i gShhot to ulapd periply anshd be ableev itemsalua tbeed fror eqauir SedNA iPn lmoreicense. tha n Dear Ms. Swezy: t wo categories? 1 The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of WouldFMI gen a deraliflfyeren suptpo dertfs iniincreasition ofn gthe the ‘‘ stapnumlbee froo of dmsi’ni’ requmumi red perishain SNble iteAP aums thostoriczkeded , sprovtoreside d Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program conhelp sitdeo ensratiouren and tha fltex theibiselity storesis mad e offorfer s motoresre ihen aaltreahys tfhaootd cho may fiaceces? pe Irfi osdio, c wchahaltl enkindsges of (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and stchangeockings pewrouishald beble ite mosms.t effective? Specifically, almost all foods can be counted towards abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions. meet ing staple food requirements, including those high in added sugar, sodium or solid Afatsre .50 Sho peuldrcen foot ofds sa hliesgh iinn stapthesele cofoomponds, asen cuts rberentl coyun requtedi redas s ftorap crle iftoeodrions wBhe, sun fficient to The supermarket industry, which FMI represents, is proud to be a private sector partner with deentsuermre itninghat a sto SNre APau authtorihozarizedtion store requ ifremenurthers ts? the program’s purpose, given the current federal and state governments in an effective, efficient way of reducing hunger and improving definition of ‘‘staple foods’’? Would this percentage be sufficient if the definition of access to food for our nation’s poor. D‘‘staple efining f“oostapdsle’’ fioos chdsan” isge a daund to extingclude task i tfemsor a p hiroghgram in adthadet id sugs gearaedr, tsoowdard iumfee or disongl ihud fnats?gry people in a variety of geographic regions and climates. What may be deemed a “staple” in one FMI offers the following comments and observations to the agency in response to the Request rTehegionre a mre soay nomte befor in anomat sttoresher are thaat, myet ayt o adcarrym tihonistusaner ads o statfe S-byKU-s’s tatebu tl ibest ocaf use“stap olfe” the produ size octsf the for Information. wstouoreld be , a fifnety xpet trocen imtpo crsitsierblione. mAays y noout kbeno wrea, tchehe Wd,I Cev proen gramthoug h alrthoeausady idendnts oififes foo sped pcirodficuct spes cimalay besup avplementailable.al Fo foor dsex amplthat e, clienant s 18m0,000ay ha vse nutquareri tfiooonat sl tdeorefi cimenayci caes inrry 14an0d a,00uthor0 SKizUes t’s, heanid or f puthorse,cha 35se and,000 mreayqui conres astuthoritute fizooedd ritetaiemls,ers w hitoch is stock.cl eaTherly ma vissiast onar orfay the o fpr pescriproducts,tion bu-bat wsedou ld notWIC Is ensuring that SNAP retailers provide SNAP clients access to healthy food choices a procomplgraym as it sho wuloud nold nott be meconet fusethed w fiftiyth t pehercen mitssi thrones hoof ltd.he hunger focused SNAP program. reasonable priority for establishing SNAP store eligibility criteria? FuAddrtihetionrmalolrye,, FM FMI Iop oppoposes mses anyanda eftfiorngts at o ccerrteaain pete a rmcenore cotagem oplf fioocatedds m shoeeptinpig specing procefic ssnu ftorirt ionSNalA P Although the SNAP Program is primarily a hunger program and nutrition counseling and access custostandamrersds ,i n oor rtdeo prr tovo iqdeua polifyt enas atial S coNmAPpl exvenitidoes rf oras supthe ertimmear rketsequi rtedo de to caltermcineulate , prboogtrha mthe for , and to health services are provided to recipients through the Special Supplemental Nutrition ennuftorcerition allim conitatiotennst anond p, thercente eligibiagliety cou of producld be vterys, gi sivgenni ftihecan cout. ntless number of newly introduced Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP recipients should have the ability to 3 or changing items throughout the store in an ongoing basis. There would be policy questions purchase a wide variety of nutritious, economical foods for their families. This is achieved Ssurrhoouuldnd stoingres whiwch enthoseit yp riwmaoulry d mbuakse inethess p (rasod ucevt idedetncermedina bytion ma, mrketaintaiingn, ia linvsten otory of ineligr isable les) through depth of stock in store offerings and by public nutrition education. productsis not the bro sakenle o dof foown td,o be the el subigibcale teto pagory rtproducicipatte i levn elS N(i.Ae. Pa? U PC database), and keep that list 4 updated with hundreds of new products entering the marketplace every day. There are some store formats that carry thousands of SKU’s in a large range of goods but Are there store types that clearly meet all of the Program goals and, consequently, because of the size of the store, the primary source of inventory may not be food. However, should always be eligible for SNAP participation? these same stores may carry thousands of food products and should be eligible for SNAP 2 FMI Definition of Terms: http://www.fmi.org/research-resources/fmi-research-resources/food-industry- participation. glossary/%27g%27-supermarket-terms 1 Restaurants are generally prohibited from being SNAP retailers, and hot foods cannot be 3 Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through purchased with SNAP benefits. However, there are authorized retailers who primarily sell http://www.fmi.org/facts_figs/?fuseaction=superfact programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable food for immediate consumption, often on premises, but also sell their products cold and An average of 20,000 new products are introduced each year. benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store 4 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org and for information regarding the FMI 5 fhtto Fup:/nooda/d www.ftioMan, vrisitkmeti iww.org/fngw I.nsfmactiiftstouteu_fndi, gahstitt/?fonp:/.usorg/www.fmea. ction=i.org/rsuperfesaceat rch-resources/supermarket-facts NNN ovovovember ember ember 666,,, 202020131313 PPPagagage e e 324 heDWo that ewnt heelveevmal uaiftoremsti ngSN t(AhetheP tre ymipecipinims oenf usttm s oriaesmmounmedia that tsho netelyceul d afssbetary er apputprovorcha meeedse tf oS frorN SA Na noPA auP mipthartorinaicilza pafeetitoni.on Th ,cri UesStere DiAon A, shobystores viruld consituequ oafli defney rted odtheingay av bataihrlseabeed on i lvaity rianethetd afies ar fiordabiray n theof lf iourawty or f dif ifngoofereddsrent iin alen staptls de, sulpae chfrootm asd caen utsnb.t egTakheoried dees pizzafi)ni ptrovideion or o fra a w adfsupisheqerm. uaShoate varrkuldet isus ietyach r ef otstoreair la st rore etais be tlhaer eltit gselo iblefurls ta vfheor arier pathetryt i Pcoirfpa ogfootram’id pon riodsn puSuctsNrposA,P in? e?cl ud Ifi ngno some t, whapet wrioushaldbl bee a November 6, 2013 2 imore tems anapd proprgeneiateral mrequerchirement?andise. FM I believes that if a retailer wishes to apply for a SNAP l Aicenny of se, thethesey fshoormulatsd ha thave tt dohe no rigt htcon tosi besten evtally uaofftered, a wasi delon arrg asay t heof yin adgredheirene tt op rtheod ucts not irFuntendeespll servonsid ibice gfolirti es, imromceryredulesi ates tanor ces prd spionsumptrovit iassodeion theci shoated grulea d bewtestith t covheariensi StdeNy AorPedf f oopro fodrg atenra mtthery. intomo stth compee SNAPtit iprove prgraices m so Ms. Shanta Swezy un thalesst SN tAo Pad recidresspien at sun miquay e situatshop as ional lan otd wheri tcustoh a mmuchers g dorea. tIern flactevel, t heof scavrerutaginye. g rocery store Chief, Retailer Management and Issuance Branch 5 carr ies some 38,718 products , which also include thousands of foods that are considered Retailer Policy and Management Division, SNAP iSCmhoonpould vertanrselalt tlo y,retm areaaiintail etrs heniwrne shgo m a tore heeealttypt hySesN diA tetPha .el tFM idogibI nosupilitty p ecriortffectser tproposaiivea bely iaumprovelst hoto riincreaszed ac,ce eve tssenhe t ow m fheooininmd su uchmfoicesf icien t Food and Nutrition Service, USDA v(store e.garie. tsies inactoresce sst hetha f ofoutr serecir dill flpfoeriwenen atts moun sits noaple tstf ooaof cods fooncgroups.der wn?he n compa FMI also suppored to trhets FNamoS unconts ofside rdingist itlheled 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 426 ql iuaqunortit,y t obof acindcoividu anad/orl items lottserytock tedick ietsn the so vlaried) anties od, thef theref sotre,apl e shfoooudl dg raloupways ens be surinineg custligibloe mforers Alexandria, VA 22302 YconSNes. AsiPAst paencompanyrttlyi chaipave accesst itonhat? m eets to eathech i SNtemAP. eligibility criteria should be allowed to apply for a SNAP license regardless of concerns about store access. This empowers SNAP customers with more Re: Request for Information: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ICchot urrentlwouicesld m tyha,ak rett eco anouliled lo senrs wwse er ho are tto autheir grocerauhotrhoize a ryi zedbistllos rune wanded inithor ccriut reattehese rion dethe pA tp h andarerod urequc vt arieseliredecty to iontfo p stocktrheodyucts ha pev nee rishedabed le Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility (Docket No: 2013-20244) byiavte aims a custlab(le.ge too tm., erfheresh. m H.ow ,S foroevmzeere n or g, raoce rereftraiyri ler sgetorestharatt ed hasel vflrue ts lieghetsal anab producd vegility to oetabts ffanerld esp froli;v dalate owiry;s brathe meatsnd rs,ul es w,hi wpoch mithiuln ttryayhe an d fenscopishab; e olbreae SNf thedA Por law custo ce shoreamulers)l d alin ttoww aysto cars etchhategv te theorheiires be r.i gSnehhotf itto ul dapold perilars.ply an shd be ableev itemsalua tbeed fror eqauir SedNA iPn lmoreicense. tha n Dear Ms. Swezy: t wo categories? 1 G rocers are able to provide consumers with helpful information regarding food choices for their The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of fFMWouldamilI gies. en a deralThiiflsfyeren isups evtpoi dedertncefs iniincreasitd byion ofthen gt hev tariehe ‘‘ stapnuty moflbe e fofrodoo ofs dmtshai’ni’ trequm areum oi red pefferedrishain SN as wble iteAPel laum as s thostunoriicqzkueeded ap , sprovtproaoresideche d s Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program tconheo nulp sittdero ensitironatio eduren anduca that ifonltex t.he iIbin seliftacty storesis , tmodaday e of’s forfsuper s moteroresmre ar ihen akealttr earehygs ist tfhaooeredtd cho m aydietici fiaceceans? pes Iplrfi osadio, ys c wa chahagrowltl enkindsingges r ol ofe in (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and ststchangeocorek-inlevgs elpew as wrouishald beelbll e iteas cor mosms.pot efratefec tnuive?trit ionSpe edcifucicaatilonly,. aFilmosfty-nitne al lpe foorcends tca ofn b grocee cours pntedrovide to wsomeards abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions. 6 tmeetype oingf nu sttrapitionle coufoonsed reliqungiremen. In addits,tion inc, tlheud igroceng thoryse ind highustry i nha ads wdeord suked gain r,con sojundiumction or w soith lid ffAooatsre d .50 mShoan peuuldrcenfac ftuootr ersofds sa tholi esghcrea iinnt e new stapthesele vcofoloounmpondstary, as enlab cuts elriberentlng coofy un“ frequactteds i upredas fsr fontorapt ”crl etha iftoet odrigonivs e consumer wBhe, sun fficiens t to The supermarket industry, which FMI represents, is proud to be a private sector partner with endequitsucermk,re baitninghasict nua sto StrNitre iAonPau iauntfhotorirhomzaaritzeditonion ab store requout prodifremenurtheuctsrs ts t? thahe t isprog visirablm’e on s putherpos fronet ,o givenf an increasi the cunrgrent federal and state governments in an effective, efficient way of reducing hunger and improving de numfinbeitiron of fooof ‘d‘staple packa gfoeods ths’’rou? gWouhoutld thethis st oreperc. Menantagy ge beroce rsuy stffiocries pent riovf theide derecifinipetsion an ofd access to food for our nation’s poor. ‘Dk‘nostaple efiwniledngg f“ooeastapdsble sle’’ fitoosa fchfds aan”t tishge e dela daund toi, exbatingkcludee rtya sank i tfd butemsor a p chhiroer ghgrshoam in adptha thadet itd sugs a greae ablraedr,e tsotowo daard inswumfee er or dia vsongariel ihud ftnyats?g oryf peq ueopstleion in a s abvarieout tiny gorfed geieognts rapanhidc nuretgriiontions . an d climates. What may be deemed a “staple” in one FMI offers the following comments and observations to the agency in response to the Request rT ehegionre a mre soay nomte befor in anomat sttoresher are thaat, myet ayt o adcarrym tihonistusaner ads o statfe S-byKU-s’s tatebu tl ibest ocaf use“stap olfe” the produ size octsf the for Information. Istwf ouorestoreld be , a facifnetyce xpesst trocen w imetre po crsaitsi ecorblione. nc mern iAays y nooun ant kbeno area wrea, tchehewhe Wdre ,I Cevno proen s gramtthooreug meeh alrthoeats basusady idendintsc oielfifes ifgiboo sped pilitciryodf icrcuct speiters icimaal ay besupfor avplSNementaiAlabP laue.al tFo hofoorr dsexizat amplthaiont e, cl, hoienanwt s 18 shm0,000ayou lhad FN vse nutquaS rseeri tfliooeoct nat stl htdeoree sfi citmoresenayci caes in to aurry 14antho0d a,00riuthorze t0 SKhaizUtes t ’bes, heanst id oser rve f ttpuhoherse,cha ne ed35se ands,00 of0 tmrheeayq uicl conries aenstt uthorpoitutepu filzooatedido rin?tetaiem Sls,ersho wuld hitoch is s FNtock.Scl employeaTherly ma vissi anast on evar oraluafay the ot fipr onpescriprod anucts,d scotion bu-barti ngwsedou ld notWIC Is ensuring that SNAP retailers provide SNAP clients access to healthy food choices a syprocomplstem?graym as it sho If so wulou,d wnold nothat bet cr mecitoneriet fusea shothed w fifutiyltd h t pemakehercen mit ssi upthron essu hoochf ltd. hea sys huntem?ger focu sed SNAP program. reasonable priority for establishing SNAP store eligibility criteria? FuAThiddrs tihetiison ranmalo loprye,, FMpo FMrIt unIop opitpoypo fses morses any USanDAda etfo tfiorncongts avt o cencere a rteaain pette aaskf rmcorceenore cota tgoe mg oaplft hefioocatedr dfs eem shodbeeacptinpik g specingon ptheroce fliic censsnu siftornirt gionS oNalfA P Although the SNAP Program is primarily a hunger program and nutrition counseling and access custosthoanmdae delmrersdsiv ,iery n oor rtservdeo prr toviceo iqdes uaor polifoytt enheas atri alun S coiNquemAPpl de exvenliitvidoeryes rf orasmech supthean ertimimsmear rs ketsetqhaui trt edoare de t o calcuterrmrecintlyneulate , pavrbooaigltrabha mtlhee t for hrou, angdh to health services are provided to recipients through the Special Supplemental Nutrition some ennuftorceritionsup allim erconitmatioartenknset t anson. d p, thercente eligibiagliety cou of producld be vterys, gi sivgenni ftihecan cout. ntless number of newly introduced Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP recipients should have the ability to 3 or changing items throughout the store in an ongoing basis. There would be policy questions purchase a wide variety of nutritious, economical foods for their families. This is achieved SsurrHhoow ouuldshnd oustoingld res wintegrhiwch enthoisetyi t aypnd riwmaou manalry d mbuagekse mentinethess p pri(rasodo ucrievtti iesdede tncbeermed baina bylantion mace, d agamrketaintaiinginsn, tia li nvhestenal otthyory of ine fooligr d choisable lesi)ce through depth of stock in store offerings and by public nutrition education. criproductsis noterit athe i nbro sathekenle o S Ndof AfoowPn t aud,o tbe hothe riel subzaigibticaonle te tproco pagoryes rtproducicipas? Wtte iha levnt eleSl Nemen(i.Ae. Pa? t Us cou PC dald betaba usse),ed an tod askeesepss tha t list 4 i upntegrdatedity w riitskh hunds, anrd hoeds wof shnewou producld they bets en apterinplg tiedhe? marketplace every day. T here are some store formats that carry thousands of SKU’s in a large range of goods but Are there store types that clearly meet all of the Program goals and, consequently, Ibentecaugrityse o off tthehe prosizgrame of th ane std ourore, rtolhee as prim aaryn on sougoirngce o paf irnvtneenr tworyith US mayD noA tto b ene fsureood. anHow imevpoer,rtan t, should always be eligible for SNAP participation? tyheet se savulnemrabe lste segmores menayt ocarrf ouyr t hopousapulationds no dof fooes nd pot rodgoucts hun angryd is shotheul d bemost elimigpoiblre tanfotr gSoaNAl wP e see. 2 FMI Definition of Terms: http://www.fmi.org/research-resources/fmi-research-resources/food-industry- pa rticipation. glossary/%27g%27-supermarket-terms FMI appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on USDA’s request for comments on the 1 SRupespltauementrantsal are Nut geritionne raAssilly stprohance Pibitredog rfaromm ( SbeNAinPg SN) EnhAanP retcingai lReetairs, anl Fod hod Stot foreoo dsEl igcaibinnlityo.t FMbe I 3 Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through pufurtrchaher supsed powritts h SNthe gAoaP lbe ofne USfitDs.A Htoowever elimina, ttehe wrae arste,e au frautd andhorized ab usereta iin tlers hew ShoNA prP ipromagriraly sem. ll http://www.fmi.org/facts_figs/?fuseaction=superfact programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable food for immediate consumption, often on premises, but also sell their products cold and An average of 20,000 new products are introduced each year. benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store 4 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org and for information regarding the FMI 56 fhtto FFuMI p:/nooda/d Retwww.ftioMan, aivrisitkl Fometi iww.org/fngodw I a.nsfmacndtiiftst outePu_fhnarmdi, gahstitt/?foanp:/.cusoyrg/www.fm Hea. eactilonth =ani.org/rsupd Werfeselacleanet rscsh Rep-resouortr ces/supermarket-facts NNN Novovovovember ember ember ember 6666,,,, 2020202013131313 PPPPagagagage e e e 4352 WDHheo towhat ewentv heelveever,mal FM uaiftoremstIi ngbeSN lti(AheevthePe ts re ymipetcipihanims to enanf usttm ys o imriaesmmounpmediar tovhaementt tsho netelyceuls d aftssobet ary er the appu protprovorcha meegramedse tf oS nefrorN SedA Na noP At o enauP mipthartsure orinaicilza pafteehatitoni.ont Thal ,cri l UeshoStere neDiAonst A, shobystores actin virulg rd consituequetai oalflers i defney rtconed odtheingayt inuav bataie hrltseabeeo be d on i lvaityab rianetle hetd afiesto be ar fiordabiray n tconheof silf iourawtdey or rfed dif ifngoo ffoereddsrrent S iin alNen AstaptPls de ,pa sulpae rtchifrciootmpa asd caenti outsn.nb.t egTakheoried dees pizzafi)ni ptrovideion or o fra a w fsupadisheqerm. uaShoate varrkuldet isus ietyach r ef otstoreair la st rore etais be tlhaer eltit gselo iblefurls ta vfheor arier pathetryt i Pcoirfpa ogfootram’id pon riodsn puSuctsNrposA,P in? e?cl ud Ifi ngno some t, whapet wrioushaldbl bee a November 6, 2013 2 more Titemshank anapyoud proprg agenaieiatern alf o mrrequ etherch ioprement?anpodise.rtun iFM t y tIo becolmievmes tentha, ant id wf a re loetaiokler forwwisheard s tto co aonppltyinu foring a SN to wAorPk with l AFNicennyS of se, to ensuthethesey r fshoe ortmheulats d inteha thagvre tti tdoyhe o fno rSigtN htconA Pto.si besten evtally uaofftered, a wasi delon arrg asay t heof yin adgredheirene tt op rtheod ucts not ir Funtendeespll servonsid ibice gfolirti es, imromceryredulesi ates tanor ces prd spionsumptrovit iassodeion theci shoated grulea d bewtestith t covheariensi StdeNy AorPedf f oopro fodrg atenra mtthery. intomo stth compee SNAPtit iprove prgraices m so Ms. Shanta Swezy t unhalesst SN tAo Pad recidresspien at sun miquay e situatshop as ional lan otd wheri tcustoh a mmuchers g dorea. tIern flactevel, t heof scavrerutaginye. g rocery store Chief, Retailer Management and Issuance Branch 5 carr Sinceies relsomey, 38,718 products , which also include thousands of foods that are considered Retailer Policy and Management Division, SNAP iSC mhoonpould vertanrselalt tlo y,retm areaaiintail etrs heniwrne shgo m a tore heeealttypt hySesN diA tetPha .el tFM idogibI nosupilitty p ecriortffectser tproposaiivea bely iaumprovelst hoto riincreaszed ac,ce eve tssenhe t ow m fheooininmd su uchmfoicesf icien t Food and Nutrition Service, USDA vstore ( e.garie. tsies inactoresce sst hetha f ofoutr serecir dill flpfoeriwenen atts moun sits noaple tstf ooaof cods fooncgroups.der wn?he n compa FMI also suppored to trhets FNamoS unconts ofside rdingist itlheled 3101 Park Center Drive, Room 426 ql iuaqunortit,y t obof acindcoividu anad/orl items lottserytock tedick ietsn the so vlaried) anties od, thef theref sotre,apl e shfoooudl dg raloupways ens be surinineg custligibloe mforers Alexandria, VA 22302 S Ycones. NAsiPAst paencompanyrttlyi chaipave accesst itonhat? m eets to eathech i SNtemAP. eligibility criteria should be allowed to apply for a SNAP license regardless of concerns about store access. This empowers SNAP customers with more Re: Request for Information: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) ICchot urrentlwouicesld m tyha,ak rett eco anouliled lo senrs wwse er ho are tto autheir grocerauhotrhoize a ryi zedbistllos rune wanded inithor ccriut reattehese rion dethe pA tp h andarerod urequc vt arieseliredecty to iontfo p stocktrheodyucts ha pev nee rishedabed le Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility (Docket No: 2013-20244) Jennifer Hatcher byiavte aims a custlab(le.ge too tm., erfheresh. m H.ow ,S foroevmzeere n or g, raoce rereftraiyri ler sgetorestharatt ed hasel vflrue ts lieghetsal anab producd vegility to oetabts ffanerld esp froli;v dalate owiry;s brathe meatsnd rs,ul es w,hi wpoch mithiuln ttryayhe an d Senior Vice President fscopenishab; e olbreae SNf thedA Por law custo ce shoreamulers)l d alin ttoww aysto cars etchhategv te theorheiires be r.i gSnehhotf itto ul dapold perilars.ply an shd be ableev itemsalua tbeed fror eqauir SedNA iPn lmoreicense. tha n Dear Ms. Swezy: Government and Public Affairs t wo categories? 1 G rocers are able to provide consumers with helpful information regarding food choices for their The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) is pleased to respond to the U.S. Department of FMWouldfamilI gies. en a deralThiiflsfyeren isups evtpoi dedertncefs iniincreasitd byion ofthen gt hev tariehe ‘‘ stapnuty moflbe e fofrodoo ofs dmtshai’ni’ trequm areum oi red pefferedrishain SN as wble iteAPel laum as s thostunoriicqzkueeded ap , sprovtproaoresideche d s Agriculture’s (USDA) request for comments on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program conheto nulp sittdero ensitironatio eduren anduca that ifonltex t.he iIbin seliftacty storesis , tmodaday e of’s forfsuper s moteroresmre ar ihen akealttr earehygs ist tfhaooeredtd cho m aydietici fiaceceans? pes Iplrfi osadio, ys c wa chahagrowltl enkindsingges r ol ofe in (SNAP) Enhancing Retail Food Store Eligibility. We share your desire to eliminate fraud and ststchangeoreock-inlevgs elpew as wrouishald beelbll e iteas cor mosms.pot efratefec tnuive?trit ionSpe edcifucicaatilonly,. aFilmosfty-nitne al lpe foorcends tca ofn b grocee cours pntedrovide to wsomeards abuse in the system and want to help find workable solutions. 6 t meetype oingf nu sttrapitionle coufoonsed reliqungiremen. In addits,tion inc, tlheud igroceng thoryse ind highustry i nha ads wdeord suked gain r,con sojundiumction or w soith lid ffAooatsre d .50 mShoan peuuldrcenfac ftuootr ersofds sa tholi esghcrea iinnt e new stapthesele vcofoloounmpondstary, as enlab cuts elriberentlng coofy un“ frequactteds i upredas fsr fontorapt ”crl etha iftoet odrigonivs e consumer wBhe, sun fficiens t to The supermarket industry, which FMI represents, is proud to be a private sector partner with endequitsucermk,re baitninghasict nua sto StrNitre iAonPau iauntfhotorirhomzaaritzeditonion ab store requout prodifremenurtheuctsrs ts t? thahe t isprog visirablm’e on s putherpos fronet ,o givenf an increasi the cunrgrent federal and state governments in an effective, efficient way of reducing hunger and improving de numfinbeitiron of fooof ‘d‘staple packa gfoeods ths’’rou? gWouhoutld thethis st oreperc. Menantagy ge beroce rsuy stffiocries pent riovf theide derecifinipetsion an ofd access to food for our nation’s poor. ‘kD‘nostaple efiwniledngg f“ooeastapdsble sle’’ fitoosa fchfds aan”t tishge e dela daund toi, exbatingkcludee rtya sank i tfd butemsor a p chhiroer ghgrshoam in adptha thadet itd sugs a greae ablraedr,e tsotowo daard inswumfee er or dia vsongariel ihud ftnyats?g oryf peq ueopstleion in a s abvarieout tiny gorfed geieognts rapanhidc nuretgriiontions . an d climates. What may be deemed a “staple” in one FMI offers the following comments and observations to the agency in response to the Request Tr ehegionre a mre soay nomte befor in anomat sttoresher are thaat, myet ayt o adcarrym tihonistusaner ads o statfe S-byKU-s’s tatebu tl ibest ocaf use“stap olfe” the produ size octsf the for Information. Istwf ouorestoreld be , a facifnetyce xpesst trocen w imetre po crsaitsi ecorblione. nc mern iAays y nooun ant kbeno area wrea, tchehewhe Wdre ,I Cevno proen s gramtthooreug meeh alrthoeats basusady idendintsc oielfifes ifgiboo sped pilitciryodf icrcuct speiters icimaal ay supbefor avplSNementaiAlabP laue.al tFo hofoorr dsexizat amplthaiont e, cl, hoienanwt s 18 shm0,000ayou lhad FN vse nutquaS rseeri tfliooeoct nat stl htdeoree sfi citmoresenayci caes in to aurry 14antho0d a,00riuthorze t0 SKhaizUtes t ’bes, heanst id oser rve f tputhoherse,cha ne ed35se ands,00 of0 tmrheeayq uicl conries aenstt uthorpoitutepu filzooatedido rin?tetaiem Sls,ersho wuld hitoch is s FNtock.Scl employeaTherly ma vissi anast on evar oraluafay the ot fipr onpescriprod anucts,d scotion bu-barti ngwsedou ld notWIC Is ensuring that SNAP retailers provide SNAP clients access to healthy food choices a syprocomplstem?graym as it sho If so wulou,d wnold nothat bet cr mecitoneriet fusea shothed w fifutiyltd h t pemakehercen mit ssi upthron essu hoochf ltd. hea sys huntem?ger focu sed SNAP program. reasonable priority for establishing SNAP store eligibility criteria? FuAThiddrs tihetiison ranmalo loprye,, FMpo FMrIt unIop opitpoypo fses morses any USanDAda etfo tfiorncongts avt o cencere a rteaain pette aaskf rmcorceenore cota tgoe mg oaplft hefioocatedr dfs eem shodbeeacptinpik g specingon ptheroce fliic censsnu siftornirt gionS oNalfA P Although the SNAP Program is primarily a hunger program and nutrition counseling and access hostcustoanmdae delmrersdsiv ,iery n oor rtservdeo prr toviceo iqdes uaor polifoytt enheas atri alun S coiNquemAPpl de exvenliitvidoeryes rf orasmech supthean ertimimsmear rs ketsetqhaui trt edoare de t o calcuterrmrecintlyneulate , pavrbooaigltrabha mtlhee t for hrou, angdh to health services are provided to recipients through the Special Supplemental Nutrition some ennuftorceritionsup allim erconitmatioartenknset t anson. d p, thercente eligibiagliety cou of producld be vterys, gi sivgenni ftihecan cout. ntless number of newly introduced Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), SNAP recipients should have the ability to 3 or changing items throughout the store in an ongoing basis. There would be policy questions purchase a wide variety of nutritious, economical foods for their families. This is achieved SHsurrhoow ouuldshnd oustoingld res wintegrhiwch enthoisetyi t aypnd riwmaou manalry d mbuagekse mentinethess p pri(rasodo ucrievtti iesdede tncbeermed baina bylantion mace, d agamrketaintaiinginsn, tia li nvhestenal otthyory of ine fooligr d choisable lesi)ce through depth of stock in store offerings and by public nutrition education. criproductsis noterit athe i nbro sathekenle o S Ndof AfoowPn t aud,o tbe hothe riel subzaigibticaonle te tproco pagoryes rtproducicipas? Wtte iha levnt eleSl Nemen(i.Ae. Pa? t Us cou PC dald betaba usse),ed an tod askeesepss tha t list 4 i upntegrdatedity w riitskh hunds, anrd hoeds wof shnewou producld they bets en apterinplg tiedhe? marketplace every day. T here are some store formats that carry thousands of SKU’s in a large range of goods but Are there store types that clearly meet all of the Program goals and, consequently, Ibentecaugrityse o off tthehe prosizgrame of th ane std ourore, rtolhee as prim aaryn on sougoirngce o paf irnvtneenr tworyith US mayD noA tto b ene fsureood. anHow imevpoer,rtan t, should always be eligible for SNAP participation? tyheet se savulnemrabe lste segmores menayt ocarrf ouyr t hopousapulationds no dof fooes nd pot rodgoucts hun angryd is shotheul d bemost elimigpoiblre tanfotr gSoaNAl wP e see. 2 FMI Definition of Terms: http://www.fmi.org/research-resources/fmi-research-resources/food-industry- pa rticipation. glossary/%27g%27-supermarket-terms FMI appreciates the opportunity to provide comments on USDA’s request for comments on the 1 SRupespltauementrantsal are Nut geritionne raAssilly stprohance Pibitredog rfaromm ( SbeNAinPg SN) EnhAanP retcingai lReetairs, anl Fod hod Stot foreoo dsEl igcaibinnlityo.t FMbe I 3 Food Marketing Institute proudly advocates on behalf of the food retail industry. FMI’s U.S. members operate nearly 40,000 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. retail food stores and 25,000 pharmacies, representing a combined annual sales volume of almost $770 billion. Through pufurtrchaher supsed powritts h SNthe gAoaP lbe ofne USfitDs.A Htoowever elimina, ttehe wrae arste,e au frautd andhorized ab usereta iin tlers hew ShoNA prP ipromagriraly sem. ll http://www.fmi.org/facts_figs/?fuseaction=superfact programs in public affairs, food safety, research, education and industry relations, FMI offers resources and provides valuable food for immediate consumption, often on premises, but also sell their products cold and An average of 20,000 new products are introduced each year. benefits to more than 1,225 food retail and wholesale member companies in the United States and around the world. FMI membership covers the spectrum of diverse venues where food is sold, including single owner grocery stores, large multi-store 4 The average number of items carried in a supermarket in 2010 was 38,718. supermarket chains and mixed retail stores. For more information, visit www.fmi.org and for information regarding the FMI 56 fhtto FFuMI p:/nooda/d Retwww.ftioMan, aivrisitkl Fometi iww.org/fngodw I a.nsfmacndtiiftst outePu_fhnarmdi, gahstitt/?foanp:/.cusoyrg/www.fm Hea. eactilonth =ani.org/rsupd Werfeselacleanet rscsh Rep-resouortr ces/supermarket-facts