USDA to purchase $30 million in California walnuts

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced plans to purchase $30 million in California walnuts through its Section 32 authority. This move follows a previous $15 million walnut purchase earlier this year, bringing the total Section 32 walnut purchases for 2026 to $45 million.

Under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935, the USDA is authorized to buy domestic agricultural commodities for nutritional assistance programs, including the National School Lunch Program, the School Breakfast Program, food banks, and soup kitchens.

The California Walnut Commission expressed support for the decision, noting that the purchase provides a market opportunity while helping to manage the surplus from a record 2025 crop. The initiative aims to strengthen market conditions for growers facing global market disruptions and trade uncertainties.