scholarly journals How Is the Availability of Staple Food Items in Small Retailers in Providence, RI? (P04-145-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yuyao Huang ◽  
John Taylor ◽  
Alison Tovar ◽  
Maya Vadiveloo

Abstract Objectives Inventory requirements for retailers authorized in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have undergone several revisions. The final rule in Jan 2018 requires minimum stocking of 36 instead of 12 staple food items in the original rule. While a more stringent rule was proposed in 2016 to expand the requirements to 84 items, it was not implemented due to concerns that stores may not withstand this expansion. This descriptive study examined food stocking in a sample of small retailers in Providence, RI to evaluate the barriers to more stringent requirements and explore differences in compliance to the original, proposed and final rules between high and low SNAP participating and racial minority resident areas. Methods This study used Food Access Research Atlas data to characterize the food environment of 30 small retailers from 5 census tracts in Providence, RI. Stores were assessed with an audit instrument developed by the Illinois Prevention Research Center to tally variety, perishability and depth of stock offerings in four staple food categories. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA and chi-square tests were used to determine compliance to the different requirements and if they differ between tracts with high and low SNAP participating and racial minority residents. Results Stores sampled included 12 non-chain grocery stores, 12 convenience stores,1 small discount store,4 pharmacies and 1 liquor store. Of all stores, 80% were compliant with final rule and 66.7% would need to expand their offerings to meet the proposed rule. Of the SNAP authorized stores, 88.5% were compliant with final rule and 61.5% would need to expand their offerings to meet the proposed rule. Mean dairy variety was lower than variety in the other three categories (P < 0.05), which would be a potential barrier to the proposed rule. Majority of the stores were meeting the perishability and depth of stock requirements (92.3% and 96.1% respectively) in the proposed and final rules. No difference in compliance was detected between tracts with high and low SNAP participating and racial minority residents. Conclusions Future expansion of inventory requirements could potentially lead to increased healthful food availability without imposing undue burden on small retailers in Providence, RI, excluding increased requirements for dairy variety. Funding Sources The study was not sponsored.

Author(s):  
Yuyao Huang ◽  
Alison Tovar ◽  
John Taylor ◽  
Maya Vadiveloo

Inventory requirements for authorized Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) retailers have undergone several revisions to increase the availability of healthful foods. A proposed rule of 84 staple food items was not implemented due to concerns that stores would not withstand this expansion, resulting in a final rule requiring 36 items. This study used the Food Access Research Atlas data to characterize food provisions in 30 small retailers in areas with high and low proportions of SNAP and racial minority residents in Providence, Rhode Island (RI). Stores were assessed with an audit instrument to tally variety, perishability, and depth of stock of four staple food categories. Descriptive, analysis of variance, and chi-square analyses were performed. Across stores, 80% were compliant with the final rule, but 66.7% would need to expand their offerings to meet the proposed rule. Mean dairy variety was lowest among all categories (p < 0.05). Most stores met the perishability (92.3%) and depth-of-stock requirements (96.1%) under both rules. No difference was detected between areas with high and low proportions of SNAP and racial minority residents. Future expansion of requirements may increase healthful food availability without imposing undue burdens on retailers in Providence, RI, excluding increased requirements for dairy variety.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 191-191
Author(s):  
Cheryl Gibson ◽  
Heather Valentine ◽  
Rose-Bertine Mercier ◽  
Susan Harvey ◽  
Lauren Landfried ◽  
...  

Abstract Objectives To conduct a process and impact evaluation of Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) Heartland, a nutrition incentive program, to facilitate program delivery and sustainability at farmers markets and grocery stores, and to examine the impact on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) customers. Methods Across 4 years, we employed a mixed methods approach, including surveys with customers (n = 678) and vendors (n = 223), and interviews with market managers (n = 52) and grocery store employees (n = 38). Study samples were obtained using a geographically-stratified, probability-proportional-to-size sampling plan. Customer surveys included demographic, social, dietary and health-related variables. Survey respondents included SNAP customers who had used DUFB (n = 382) and those who had not (n = 296). Results DUFB customers were primarily female (81%) and white (48%), with a mean age of 46 ± 15 years. Non-DUFB users had similar characteristics. Of DUFB users, 56% indicated food insecurity issues and 27% rated their general health as fair to poor. Most learned of DUFB on-site. DUFB customers reported being able to afford more produce (98%), consuming a greater variety of produce (59%), and reducing their intake of unhealthy foods (45%). Importantly, 93% of DUFB users indicated the presence of the program influenced their decision to shop at the site. Among non-DUFB users, most were unaware of the program but 98% indicated they were likely to participate next time they shopped. Grocery store cashiers reported DUFB implementation was easy and it did not add time to complete a sales transaction. Store directors felt DUFB brought about a greater focus on locally grown produce and all expressed a desire to continue the program. Market managers stated participation in DUFB increased produce sales, and the number and diversity of customers. Market vendors viewed DUFB as beneficial, stating it resulted in a new customer base and increased produce sales. Conclusions Results were instrumental in identifying successes and challenges faced by locations that were implementing the DUFB program. DUFB was well accepted with few implementation barriers noted. However, many SNAP users were not aware of the nutrition incentive program. Findings will be used to refine materials and develop strategies to extend program reach. Funding Sources USDA Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive Program.


2018 ◽  
Vol 21 (9) ◽  
pp. 1639-1648 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wendi Gosliner ◽  
Daniel M Brown ◽  
Betty C Sun ◽  
Gail Woodward-Lopez ◽  
Patricia B Crawford

AbstractObjectiveTo assess produce availability, quality and price in a large sample of food stores in low-income neighbourhoods in California.DesignCross-sectional statewide survey.SettingBetween 2011 and 2015, local health departments assessed store type, WIC (Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)/SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) participation, produce availability, quality and price of selected items in stores in low-income neighbourhoods. Secondary data provided reference chain supermarket produce prices matched by county and month.tTests and ANOVA examined differences by store type; regression models examined factors associated with price.SubjectsLarge grocery stores (n231), small markets (n621) and convenience stores (n622) in 225 neighbourhoods.ResultsProduce in most large groceries was rated high quality (97 % of fruits, 98 % of vegetables), but not in convenience stores (25 % fruits, 14 % vegetables). Small markets and convenience stores participating in WIC and/or SNAP had better produce availability, variety and quality than non-participating stores. Produce prices across store types were, on average, higher than reference prices from matched chain supermarkets (27 % higher in large groceries, 37 % higher in small markets, 102 % higher in convenience stores). Price was significantly inversely associated with produce variety, adjusting for quality, store type, and SNAP and WIC participation.ConclusionsThe study finds that fresh produce is more expensive in low-income neighbourhoods and that convenience stores offer more expensive, poorer-quality produce than other stores. Variety is associated with price and most limited in convenience stores, suggesting more work is needed to determine how convenience stores can provide low-income consumers with access to affordable, high-quality produce. WIC and SNAP can contribute to the solution.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 731-731
Author(s):  
Vanessa Wielenga ◽  
Lisa Franzen-Castle ◽  
Ashley Toney ◽  
Holly Dingman

Abstract Objectives Nebraska Double Up Food Bucks (NDUFB) is an incentive program intended to increase the purchase of fresh fruits and vegetables (F&V) by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients. The objective of the NDUFB program is to provide evidence and best practices for implementing a sustainable Policy, System, and Environmental (PSE) program to improve food security and diet quality among SNAP recipients. Methods Program site selection was dependent on the availability of funding, organizational capacity, and technology levels (POS machine) of the business, geographical location, and the capacity of local Extension staff in the area. At participating sites, SNAP recipients use the program by purchasing qualifying items with their federal benefits (EBT card) to earn NDUFB in equal amounts (in $2 increments) up to $20 per day. NDUFB can be used to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs (F&V) at any participating site that day or any day in the future during site's normal business hours. Evaluation includes a mixed methods approach including customer, vendor and manager surveys, tracking purchases (customer logs and receipts) and redemptions (bank records) as well as qualitative feedback and satisfaction. Intervention took place June 2017- December 2019. Results On average, 74% of NDUFB customer survey respondents (n = 96) self-identified as food insecure. There were positive and significant (P &lt; 0.05) correlations between how long respondents reported using NDUFB and the following: ease of using NDUFB to buy F&V and consumption of green leafy or lettuce salads, non-fried kinds of potatoes, and other vegetables. In total, SNAP recipients used NDUFB to purchase over $40,000 worth of F&V. This dollar amount is on top of the money they spent on F&V ($67,052) to earn NDUFB. All together, the program contributed to over $107,000 worth of F&V spending among 1342 families. Redemption rate for NDUFB is 80%, an industry leader in nutrition incentive programs. Conclusions The primary outcomes of the study include increased purchases of fresh fruits and vegetables, with an emphasis on locally grown produce among SNAP recipients. In addition, we show an increased use of the program by customers and retailers each year. Funding Sources Children's Hospital & Medical Center, CHI Health, SNAP-Ed, USDA NIFA.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Fergus ◽  
Melissa Cater ◽  
Denise Holston

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effect of Body Quest: Food of the Warrior nutrition curriculum on preferences and willingness to consume fruits and vegetables among third graders. Methods After collecting signed parental and photo consent forms, 326 third grade students received the intervention. Students received the Body Quest education program and participated in a Veggie Tasting of six vegetables (carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, peppers, spinach, and tomatoes). Students were asked if they liked the vegetable before and after tasting it, if they would eat the vegetable in the future, and if they would ask their parents to buy the vegetable for them to eat at home. Assessments of data were completed in four periods, weeks 1, 7, 12, and 17. Alpha was set at 0.05. Results Approximately half of the students were male (n = 163; 50.2%). The largest percentage of students were white (n = 171; 53.1%). Black students comprised the next largest group (n = 112; 34.8%), and Hispanic and American Indian students comprised the remaining 12.1% (n = 39) students. Generalized estimating equations analysis revealed that, over time, statistically significant changes in preference for cauliflower and spinach occurred with students decreasing their liking for cauliflower (P = .04) and increasing their liking for spinach (P = .01). A statistically significant change in students’ interest in eating cauliflower (P = .01) and tomatoes (P = .03) in the future occurred with students initially indicating an increased willingness to eat the two vegetables, but ultimately showing a decreased willingness to eat either vegetable. A similar pattern of willingness to ask their parents to buy spinach (P = .04) occurred with students initially showing an increased willingness to ask their parents to buy spinach but ultimately indicating a decrease in their willingness to make that request. Conclusions This research suggests that Body Quest was effective in improving liking and willingness to try and request some vegetables. Because liking and willingness to request decreased in cauliflower and spinach, respectively more research is warranted to identify the optimal length of food exposure to change preference among this population. Funding Sources Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—Education (SNAP-Ed).


2019 ◽  
Vol 22 (12) ◽  
pp. 2248-2259 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eliza Whiteman Kinsey ◽  
Roxanne Dupuis ◽  
Megan Oberle ◽  
Carolyn C Cannuscio ◽  
Amy Hillier

AbstractObjective:The present study explored chronic disease management over the monthly benefit cycle among primary food shoppers from households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits in Philadelphia, PA, USA.Design:In-depth interviews, participant observation and surveys were conducted with the primary food shopper of SNAP households.Setting:Interviews and surveys were conducted in a clinical setting at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, at participants’ homes, and in food procurement settings including grocery stores, food pantries and soup kitchens.Participants:Eighteen adults who received SNAP; five with a diet-related chronic condition, five managing the chronic condition of a family member and thirteen with overweight or obesity.Results:All households had at least one member with a chronic disease or condition. Households reported that the dietary demands of managing chronic illnesses were expensive and mentally taxing. Food and financial shortfalls at the end of the benefit cycle, as well as reliance on charitable food assistance programmes, often had negative impacts on chronic disease self-management.Conclusions:Drawing from nearly 50 h of in-depth qualitative interviews with SNAP participants, the study highlights the dual cognitive burden of poverty and chronic disease and elucidates the particular challenges of food procurement and maintenance of diet quality throughout the benefit month faced by SNAP households with diet-related chronic diseases. Interventions targeted at reducing the cost of medically appropriate, healthy foods may help to improve chronic disease self-management within SNAP populations.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 728-728
Author(s):  
Samara Sullivan ◽  
June Kloubec ◽  
Alexandra Kazaks ◽  
Ekaterini Papadopoulou ◽  
Kara Bensley ◽  
...  

Abstract Objectives Farmers markets (FM) may be able to bridge the gap between food insecurity (experienced by 12% of Washingtonians) and access to nutritionally sufficient foods by accepting programs such as supplemental nutrition assistance program benefits (SNAP) and Fresh Bucks (matching incentive program). These programs have potential to make FM produce affordable to all. This study intends to identify the perspectives of Washington (WA) FM shoppers regarding access, atmosphere, and prices and selection of produce at the FM. This research located WA FMs in low-income and low food access areas, and assessed activity and perspectives of populations using FMs. Methods Identified FMs in interest areas of WA using mapping tools (PolicyMap, USDA ERS data map). Shoppers at 16 FMs participated in public dot surveys using stickers to answer questions centered around awareness, access, and perspective of the market and the products offered by placing stickers on predetermined answers. Shoppers were asked to participate in an anonymous ballot survey (Likert scale) with more sensitive questions on perspectives of the market and the shoppers’ food security status. Results Sixteen FMs were identified in eleven cities in WA that accept SNAP benefits and are located in or near low food access and low-income areas of WA. At least 30 ballots were distributed at each market; the range of ballots returned was 9 to 36 ballots. Respondents were asked how they learned of the market in the dot survey: 35.6% responded “word of mouth,” 34.6% answered “drive/walk by,” and 10.5% learned via an advertisement. When asked if respondents had experience with food insecurity, 20% of respondents answered “yes.” Of this subpopulation, 45% perceived produce at FMs to be more expensive than produce at supermarkets and 81.7% reported feeling a sense of community at the FM. Conclusions Most respondents learned about the FM via word of mouth or by physically passing the market; lack of awareness of the FM may lead to a lack of access to the FM. Shoppers perceived FM products to be pricier than produce at conventional markets; however, FM shoppers with food insecurity experience still chose to shop at FMs and most of this subpopulation indicated feeling a sense of community at the FM. Funding Sources Supported by Bastyr University Faculty Student Research Grant.


2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 203-203
Author(s):  
Denise Holston ◽  
Matthew Greene ◽  
Jessica Stroope

Abstract Objectives The purpose of this exploratory study was to describe perceptions of the local food environment and factors related to food access among low-income residents in rural, high-poverty parishes (counties) in Louisiana. Methods Data were primarily collected from four focus group discussions (FGD). Participants were low-income residents of high poverty, rural parishes and participating in at least one public assistance program. Subjects provided consent and completed a food access survey prior to participation. The FGD questions were based on rural food access literature and study objectives. During the FGD, participants were asked about their perceptions of the local food environment and local food access, how they acquired food, barriers to food access and possible solutions to address perceived barriers. FGD were transcribed verbatim and coded and themed by independent coders. Results 24 low-income adults participated in the FGD. 96% of participants were Black and 25% were male. Almost half (42%) reported not having enough food per month and 62% (n = 15) reported running out of food before the end of the month. Almost all participants reported that price was the most important factor when shopping for food. The majority of participants, especially in 2 parishes, thought the cost of food was too high at stores within the parish. Barriers to access to foods included cost, transportation, and not having enough benefits or money to cover monthly food costs. The majority of participants, especially in 2 parishes, traveled 30 or more miles to grocery stores for perceived reasonable prices and quality food. Transportation for monthly shopping trips came at a price of $10–$40 per trip. Participants in one isolated parish traveled to other parishes for specific items. Participants reported shopping at 2–4 stores monthly based on sales. Participant- derived solutions to food access were few but included locally owned grocery stores and local, public transit to foods stores for better prices. Conclusions Food access for low-income individuals living in rural locations is complex and contributes to food insecurity observed in this population. Public transit to grocery stores with low prices may be a solution to food access challenges in rural areas. Funding Sources Centers for Disease Control NU58DP006570.


2013 ◽  
Vol 16 (7) ◽  
pp. 1229-1237 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alison Gustafson ◽  
Sarah Lewis ◽  
Sarah Perkins ◽  
Corey Wilson ◽  
Elizabeth Buckner ◽  
...  

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of the study was to determine the association between dietary outcomes and the neighbourhood food environment (street network distance from home to stores) and consumer food environment (Nutrition Environment Measurement Survey-Stores (NEMS-S) audit).DesignThe neighbourhood food environment was captured by creating 0·5-mile and 1-mile network distance (street distance) around each participant's home and the nearest food venue (convenience store, grocery store, supermarket, farmers' market and produce stand). The consumer food environment was captured by conducting NEMS-S in all grocery stores/supermarkets within 0·5 and 1 mile of participants’ homes.SettingFayette County, KY, USA.SubjectsSupplemental Nutrition Assessment Program (SNAP) participants, n 147.ResultsSNAP participants who lived within 0·5 mile of at least one farmers’ market/produce stand had higher odds of consuming one serving or more of vegetables (OR = 6·92; 95 % CI 4·09, 11·69), five servings or more of grains (OR = 1·76; 95 % CI 1·01, 3·05) and one serving or more of milk (OR = 3·79; 95 % CI 2·14, 6·71) on a daily basis. SNAP participants who lived within 0·5 mile of stores receiving a high score on the NEMS-S audit reported higher odds of consuming at least one serving of vegetables daily (OR = 3·07; 95 % CI 1·78, 5·31).ConclusionsTaken together, both the neighbourhood food environment and the consumer food environment are associated with a healthy dietary intake among SNAP participants.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ginnefer Cox ◽  
Carla Moore ◽  
Jung Sun Lee

Abstract Objectives To measure acceptance of recipes taught and demonstrated through the University of Georgia Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education (SNAP-Ed) and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) nutrition education curricula through sensory evaluation. Methods Sensory evaluation was conducted on seven newly developed recipes through the SNAP-Ed Food Talk: Farmer's Market curriculum and sixteen existing recipes through the EFNEP Food Talk curriculum. To evaluate acceptance of the recipes, SNAP-Ed and EFNEP program participants were provided with a nine-point hedonic scale with 1 being ‘dislike extremely’ and 9 being ‘like extremely.’ Program participants were asked to rate for overall liking (OL) of the recipe and liking of additional sensory attributes, including appearance, flavor, texture, saltiness, and sweetness. Recipes were prepared following standardized instructions for consistency of preparation and portion size. Results A total of 1438 SNAP-Ed and EFNEP participants (78% female, 66% African American) evaluated 7 newly developed recipes (n = 563) and 16 existing recipes (n = 872). The Curly Noodle Supreme (OL = 6.11, flavor = 5.58, texture = 6.56) and Cheesy Broccoli Soup (OL = 6.63, flavor = 6.51, texture – 6.64) had the lowest ratings from the 16 existing recipes. The Chicken Chili with White Beans (OL = 7.34, flavor = 7.11, texture = 7.31) and Vegetarian Tacos (OL = 7.28, flavor = 7.04, texture = 7.15) had the highest ratings from the 7 newly developed recipes. With standard range of acceptability for a recipe being 7.0 and higher in sensory evaluation, these ratings provide justification for the addition of newly developed recipes and modification or replacement of existing recipes into the SNAP-Ed and EFNEP nutrition education curricula. Conclusions The study findings suggest that sensory evaluation has the potential to contribute to the development, testing, and modification of recipes that are more responsive to the unique sensory preferences of low-income populations for nutrition education programs. Funding Sources USDA SNAP-Ed, USDA EFNEP.


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