C O U N C I L F O R R E S P O N S I B L E N U T R I T I O N 9 “Fortunately, solving America’s dietary shortfalls is possible with the help of nutritional supplements like daily multivitamins. They’re no substitute for healthy eating, but they’re a realistic way to plug the gaps in our diets.” —CRN’s Steve Mister RAISING AWARENESS ON THE HILL CRN’s Government Relations team convened a Congressional Dietary Supplement Caucus (DSC) briefing featuring Regan Bailey, Ph.D., R.D., M.P.H, of Purdue University. Speaking before an audience of more than 60 congressional staffers and guests, Dr. Bailey discussed dietary supplement use and nutrient intakes in U.S. adults, as well as ways to improve nutritional habits and access to products that will help them achieve their health and wellness goals. MESSAGING ACROSS AMERICA To help spread the message about nutrient shortfalls, CRN’s Steve Mister’s op-ed column, “Many Americans Don’t Get Enough Nutrients from Food,” was published in USA Today and the Detroit News, with a shorter version appearing in 18 smaller community newspapers, reaching a readership of 144 million. The piece was shared 1,280 times on social media and had 98,000 coverage views. ADVANCING TOWARD OUR GOAL Low-income Americans are now one step closer to better access to vitamins and minerals. The SNAP Vitamin and Mineral Improvement Act (HR 3841), which allows for the inclusion of MVMs in SNAP, was introduced in September. In a public statement, CRN commended Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL) and original co-sponsors, Reps. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), Mia Love (R-UT) and Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), for their efforts. CRN is working to introduce similar legislation in the Senate. Regan Bailey addressing attendees at the DSC educational briefing