Food Insecurity and Child Nutrition

Food Insecurity and Child Nutrition

Malnutrition, especially malnutrition manifesting as obesity, poses a threat not only to our nation’s health, but to our national security. Nationwide, 77 percent of youth between the ages of 17 and 24 cannot qualify for military service. Overweight disqualifies 11 percent of youth from serving if they so choose, and contributes to the 44 percent of youth who are disqualified for multiple reasons.Council for a Strong America educates policymakers about the impact of nutrition policies and programs, including school meals, SNAP, and WIC, on national security.