The U.S. wheat industry remains optimistic about the future of wheat in food aid programs, as 286,000 tons of hard red winter and soft white wheat have been purchased for USDA and USAID initiatives. A 200,000-ton purchase for the Food for Progress program marks one of the largest recent food aid purchases, valued at $50 million, while another 86,000 tons of soft white wheat for USAID’s Food for Peace program sold for about $20 million. Changes to USAID’s programs have sparked discussions about moving the Food for Peace program under USDA. The wheat industry supports this move, which would require congressional action. Industry leaders believe restructuring could improve efficiency, maximize food purchases, and enhance global food aid efforts.

The Pacific Northwest (PNW) remains a key wheat-producing region, with 4.25 million acres of wheat planted in 2024 across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, according to the USDA. Wheat is a staple crop in Idaho, grown in 42 of its 44 counties, with wheat growers in the state producing around 100 million bushels annually. Idaho consistently ranks among the top states for wheat yields and quality, supplying both domestic and international markets. Idaho is the only state that grow five of the six wheat classes, with soft white wheat being a standout for its consistent quality. The state’s climate, soil, and access to irrigation help Idaho farmers grow consistently high-quality wheat.

Despite the rise of low-carb diets and discussions around GLP-1s and ultraprocessed foods, Ardent Mills’ research found that consumers generally have a favorable perception of grains. The study, which surveyed 10,000 U.S. consumers responsible for household food sourcing, revealed that 59% view grains as essential to the American diet, and 46% plan to eat more grains in the coming year—especially younger consumers aged 18 to 34. While 52% of consumers expressed a desire to learn more about grains, two-thirds said increased knowledge would lead them to eat more grain-based foods.

The North American Millers’ Association (NAMA) 2025 spring conference panel forecasted U.S. soft red winter wheat production at 354.107 million bushels, a 3% increase from 2024. If realized, it would be the third-largest crop in the past decade. Production is expected to rise in the Central, Southeast, and South/Delta/Southwest regions, offsetting declines in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. The panel also projected 2025 soft white winter wheat production at 216.314 million bushels, a slight 0.4% increase from 2024, with gains in Michigan and Virginia outweighing minor declines in Wisconsin and the Pacific Northwest.

The Food for Peace program plays a crucial role in global food aid by purchasing U.S.-grown wheat to feed starving populations while also benefiting American farmers. As one of the top U.S. wheat export programs, it provides both humanitarian relief and economic stability for wheat producers. According to Peter Laudeman, Director of Trade Policy with U.S. Wheat Associates, all wheat purchases in the pipeline for these programs proceeded as scheduled. The USDA had major wheat shipments planned, and U.S. Wheat Associates worked closely with the Trump administration to ensure their continuation.

Bioceres Crop Solutions Corp. received a U.S. patent allowance for HB4 wheat, a drought-tolerant variety approved for U.S. cultivation in 2024. HB4 wheat improves drought resistance, enhances weed management, and boosts yields by 20% in water-limited conditions. Bioceres pledges responsible commercialization, aligning with U.S. Wheat Associates’ biotechnology principles. While stakeholders are cautiously optimistic, industry leaders emphasize preserving market choice for non-GMO wheat buyers. The U.S. joins Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay in approving HB4 wheat cultivation.

Jamie Kress was recently elected Vice President of the National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG), the leading advocate for wheat growers in Washington, D.C., working to secure a stronger future for America’s farmers and the wheat industry. Jamie and her husband, Cory, own and operate an 8,500-acre dryland farm in the Rockland Valley of eastern Idaho, primarily producing winter and spring wheat alongside a variety of rotational crops. Jamie has served as President of the Idaho Grain Producers Association (IGPA) and has held multiple leadership roles within NAWG, including positions on the Board of Directors, the Budget Committee, and as Chair of the Domestic & Trade Policy Committee.