President Barack Obama greets young reporters at the Kids’ State Dinner in the East Room of the White House on Tuesday. (White House/Pete Souza)

President Barack Obama stirred up a light-hearted summer food controversy by telling a young journalist at the “Kids‘ State Dinner” that his favorite food was broccoli.

The United Fresh Produce Association immediately issued a news release praising the president’s choice.

“We’re very pleased to hear that President Barack Obama has named broccoli his favorite food at today’s ‘White House Kids’ State Dinner,’ ” said Ray Gilmer, United Fresh vice president of issues management and communication.

“We appreciate the emphasis on good nutrition and healthful eating that the president and First Lady Michelle Obama have made, and their efforts surely have made an impact on the children who were at the special event today, as well as countless others across the country. It is important for all of us to remember that all fruits and vegetables are an important part of any healthy diet.”

Because President George H.W. Bush had said publicly he could not stand broccoli and banned it from the White House, the comment immediately caused an exchange on Twitter, according to a USA Today report.

“What kind of POTUS [president of the United States] says his fav food is Broccoli?" tweeted Ari Fleischer, former press secretary for Bush. “Same one who in 2008 complained about the price of arugula at Whole Foods.”

Long-time Obama political adviser David Plouffe tweeted: “All GOP 2016ers will now have to pledge to never eat broccoli again.”