An orientation for policymakers to the federal and state agencies, programs and laws established to address nutrition-related issues, including obesity, hunger, diet and physical activity.

Released October 31, 2011, Understanding Nutrition updated the 2004 edition and is now offered as an online resource.  The primer includes 19 modules organized into four sections:

1. Role of Government
2. Statistical Profiles
3. Public Nutrition and Food Assistance Programs in California
4. Key Issues

An additional three modules, Local School Wellness Policies, Healthy Procurement in Public Agencies and Nutrition Labeling of Menus and Vending Machines, were released in September 2012.