Nearly 100 members of the U.S. House are pushing Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to include white potatoes in its federal supplemental nutrition program for women and children.  The USDA has banned fresh white potatoes from the “WIC” (Women, Infant & Children) Program.  Oregon U.S. Congressman Greg Walden is joining Democratic Congressman Gregory Meeks of New York asking Secretary Vilsack to reverse his Department's ban. “A medium white potato has more folic accident than cooked carrots or sweet potatoes.  And folic acid is important in the maintenance of new cells, which is especially important during pregnancy.”

93 U.S. House members signed a letter to the USDA asking the agency to reverse its decision to ban fresh white potatoes.  Potatoes are an important source of folic acid and are one of the cheapest fruits or vegetables available from the produce aisle.