A Randomized Trial to Encourage Healthy Eating Through Workplace Delivery of Fresh Food

2019 ◽  
Vol 34 (3) ◽  
pp. 269-276
Author(s):  
Rachel Feuerstein-Simon ◽  
Roxanne Dupuis ◽  
Ryan Schumacher ◽  
Carolyn C. Cannuscio
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Randomized Trial ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Community Supported Agriculture ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Positive Effects ◽  
End Point ◽  
Fresh Food

Purpose: This study aimed to increase the consumption of home-cooked meals among employees at a large urban worksite through a fully subsidized Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. Design: Randomized trial. Setting: Worksite in a large northeast city. Participants: Employees were recruited through flyers, e-mail listservs, and outreach from departmental administrators (n = 60). Intervention: Intervention participants received 8 biweekly fresh food deliveries through a CSA program. They also received cooking education and support. Control participants received usual employee benefits. Measures: Consumption of meals prepared at home was the primary end point. Increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables was the secondary end point, and food insecurity was an exploratory end point. Analysis: Poisson regression was used to assess mean differences in weekly consumption of home-cooked meals. To assess differences in fruit and vegetable consumption and food insecurity, binary logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios. Results: Compared to the control group, intervention participants consumed 29% more home-cooked meals per week ( P < .01). Fruit and vegetable consumption also increased among intervention participants. The odds of at least twice-daily fruit consumption were 3.8 times higher among intervention participants than among controls, and the odds of at least twice-daily vegetable consumption were 6.2 times higher among intervention participants than among controls. Compared to control participants, intervention participants experienced a statistically significant 89% reduction in the odds of reporting food insecurity at follow-up, when controlling for baseline food insecurity. Participants reported perceived intervention benefits, including the opportunity to experiment with new, healthful foods without financial risk, as well as the social value of sharing recipes, food, and related conversation with colleagues. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the feasibility and potential positive effects of a subsidized workplace CSA program, augmented with cooking education and support.

scholarly journals The Implications of Food Insecurity at a HBCU (P04-086-19)

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Linda Thompson ◽  
Chimene Castor ◽  
Rajae Gayle ◽  
Allan Johnson
Keyword(s):  
Food Security ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Fast Food ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Demographic Characteristics ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Black College ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Housing Status ◽  
Food Security Status

Abstract Objectives The objectives of the study were: 1) to determine whether there is food insecurity among matriculating students attending a Historically Black College/University (HBCU), 2) to investigate the associations between food security status and the demographic characteristics (gender, classification, housing status) of students, 3) to examine the relationship of food security status to the consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV), 4) to investigate the association of student food security status with overweight/obesity, and 5) to assess fast food consumption among food insecure students. Methods Five hundred Seventy undergrad and graduate students were recruited to participate in an online survey. The survey was voluntary and anonymous. Data were collected via a 20-item survey using Qualtrics, an online software program that allows its users to create and distribute survey instruments. The main survey questions were derived the Six-item United States Department of Agriculture-Adult Food Security Survey Module (USDA-AFSSM). The survey also included questions which measured: height and weight, daily fruit and vegetable consumption, fast food purchases and potential food pantry utilization. The remaining questions in the survey determined demographic characteristics which included gender, class, meal plan, and housing status. Results Data indicated 77.7% (405) of the sample had experienced some level of food insecurity over the last 12 months, whereas 116 (22.2%) were determined to be food secure. The prevalence of the four categories of food security status is shown in Figure 1. Food insecure students were significantly more likely to purchase fast foods two or more times a week and had significantly lower mean fruit and vegetable intakes than food secure students. Sophomores were least likely to be food secure (11.1%), while graduate/professional students were most likely to be food secure (37.6%). Students living on campus were found to be more likely to be food insecure. Conclusions The present study provides evidence of significant food insecurity. More fast food and decreased fruit and vegetable consumption was found among the food insecure vs food secure. Food security on college campuses bears further investigation. Funding Sources Howard University. Supporting Tables, Images and/or Graphs

scholarly journals Community-based culinary and nutrition education intervention promotes fruit and vegetable consumption

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-13
Author(s):  
Jessica Jarick Metcalfe ◽  
Melissa Pflugh Prescott ◽  
Melissa Schumacher ◽  
Caitlin Kownacki ◽  
Jennifer McCaffrey
Keyword(s):  
Nutrition Education ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Controlled Trial ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Cooking Classes ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Objective: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of the Market to MyPlate (M2MP) program on fruit and vegetable consumption and cooking behaviours. Secondary objectives were to examine factors that affected participant retention and program completion, and analyse program feedback provided by participants. Design: This study conducted a mixed methods evaluation embedded within a cluster randomised controlled trial of the M2MP intervention. Adult participants completed a pre- and post-program survey reporting on their fruit and vegetable consumption and cooking behaviours. A subsample participated in structured interviews, providing feedback about M2MP and the impact of the program. Setting: Seven weekly classes took place in community centres and extension offices in central Illinois. Participants: 120 adults and their families participated. Class cohorts were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups: (1) nutrition education and cooking classes with produce allocations (PAE, n 39); (2) nutrition education and cooking classes only (EO, n 36) or (3) control group (n 45). Results: Compared to control, PAE participants reported larger increases from pre- to post-intervention in fruit (P = 0·001) and vegetable consumption (P = 0·002), with no differences in cooking frequency. Interview analyses identified key themes in behaviour changes due to M2MP, including reported increases in dietary variety, cooking self-efficacy and children’s participation in cooking. Conclusions: PAE participants who received an intervention that directly increased their access to fresh produce (via produce allocations) increased their reported fruit and vegetable consumption. Though participants’ cooking frequency did not change, interviewees reported increased variety, cooking confidence and family participation in cooking.

scholarly journals Beyond clinical food prescriptions and mobile markets: parent views on the role of a healthcare institution in increasing healthy eating in food insecure families

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily L. DeWit ◽  
Emily M. Meissen-Sebelius ◽  
Robin P. Shook ◽  
Kimberly Ann Pina ◽  
Evelyn Donis De Miranda ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Healthcare System ◽  
Healthy Eating ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Healthcare Systems ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Healthcare Organizations ◽  
Patient Centered ◽  
Pediatric Healthcare

Abstract Background Children in food-insecure families face increased barriers to meeting recommendations for fruit and vegetable consumption. Hospitals and pediatric healthcare institutions have attempted to alleviate food-insecurity through various internal programs like food prescriptions, yet little evidence for these programs exist. Consistent with a patient-centered perspective, we sought to develop a comprehensive understanding of barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption and a parent-driven agenda for healthcare system action. Methods We conducted six qualitative focus group discussions (four in English, two in Spanish) with 29 parents and caregivers of patients who had screened positive for food-insecurity during visits to a large pediatric healthcare system in a midwestern U.S. city. Out iterative analysis process consisted of audio-recording, transcribing and coding discussions, aiming to produce a) a conceptual framework of barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption and b) a synthesis of participant programmatic suggestions for their healthcare system. Results Participants were 90% female, 41% Black/African American and 41% Hispanic/Latino. Barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption in their families fell into three intersecting themes: affordability, accessibility and desirability. Participant-generated intervention recommendations were multilevel, suggesting healthcare systems focus not only on clinic and community-based action, but also advocacy for broader policies that alleviate barriers to acquiring healthy foods. Conclusion Parents envision an expanded role for healthcare systems in ensuring their children benefit from a healthy diet. Finding offers critical insight on why clinic-driven programs aimed to address healthy eating may have failed and healthcare organizations may more effectively intervene by adopting a multilevel strategy.

scholarly journals Beyond clinical food prescriptions and mobile markets: parent views on the role of a healthcare institution in increasing healthy eating in food insecure families

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Emily L. DeWit ◽  
Emily M. Meissen-Sebelius ◽  
Robin P. Shook ◽  
Kimberly Ann Pina ◽  
Evelyn Donis De Miranda ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Healthcare System ◽  
Healthy Eating ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Healthcare Systems ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Healthcare Organizations ◽  
Patient Centered ◽  
Pediatric Healthcare

Abstract Background: Children in food-insecure families face increased barriers to meeting recommendations for fruit and vegetable consumption. Hospitals and pediatric healthcare institutions have attempted to alleviate food-insecurity through various internal programs like food prescriptions, yet little evidence for these programs exist. Consistent with a patient-centered perspective, we sought to develop a comprehensive understanding of barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption and a parent-driven agenda for healthcare system action. Methods: We conducted six qualitative focus group discussions (four in English, two in Spanish) with 29 parents and caregivers of patients who had screened positive for food-insecurity during visits to a large pediatric healthcare system in a midwestern U.S. city. Our iterative analysis process consisted of audio-recording, transcribing and coding discussions, aiming to produce a) a conceptual framework of barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption and b) a synthesis of participant programmatic suggestions for their healthcare system.Results: Participants were 90% female, 38% Black/African American and 41% Hispanic/Latino. Barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption in their families fell into three intersecting themes: affordability, accessibility and desirability. Participant-generated intervention recommendations were multilevel, suggesting healthcare systems focus not only on clinic and community-based action, but also advocacy for broader policies that alleviate barriers to acquiring healthy foods. Conclusion: Parents envision an expanded role for healthcare systems in ensuring their children benefit from a healthy diet. Findings offer critical insight on why clinic-driven programs aimed to address healthy eating may have failed and healthcare organizations may more effectively intervene by adopting a multilevel strategy.

scholarly journals Impact of a Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program on Health Outcomes and Behaviors in Young Navajo Children

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (8) ◽  
Author(s):  
Leandra J Jones ◽  
Joan VanWassenhove-Paetzold ◽  
Kymie Thomas ◽  
Carolyn Bancroft ◽  
E Quinn Ziatyk ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Food Security ◽  
Health Outcomes ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Program Completion ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Z Score ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
And Behaviors

ABSTRACT Background Rates of childhood obesity are higher in American Indian and Alaska Native populations, and food insecurity plays a major role in diet-related disparities. To address this need, local healthcare providers and a local nonprofit launched the Navajo Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Program in 2015. Children up to 6 y of age and their caregivers are enrolled in the 6-mo program by healthcare providers. Families attend monthly health coaching sessions where they receive vouchers redeemable for fruits, vegetables, and healthy traditional foods at retailers participating in the FVRx program. Objectives We assessed the impact of a fruit and vegetable prescription program on the health outcomes and behaviors of participating children. Methods Caregivers completed voluntary surveys to assess food security, fruit and vegetable consumption, hours of sleep, and minutes of physical activity; healthcare providers also measured children's body mass index [BMI (kg/m2)] z score at initiation and completion of the program. We calculated changes in health behaviors, BMI, and food security at the end of the program, compared with baseline values. Results A total of 243 Navajo children enrolled in Navajo FVRx between May 2015 and September 2018. Fruit and vegetable consumption significantly increased from 5.2 to 6.8 servings per day between initiation and program completion (P &lt; 0.001). The proportion of participant households reporting food insecurity significantly decreased from 82% to 65% (P &lt; 0.001). Among children classified as overweight or obese at baseline, 38% achieved a healthy BMI z score at program completion (P &lt; 0.001). Sixty-five percent of children were retained in the program. Conclusions The Navajo FVRx program improves fruit and vegetable consumption among young children. Children who are obese or overweight may benefit most from the program.

scholarly journals Increasing children's lunchtime consumption of fruit and vegetables: an evaluation of the Food Dudes programme

2012 ◽  
Vol 16 (6) ◽  
pp. 1066-1072 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dominic Upton ◽  
Penney Upton ◽  
Charlotte Taylor
Keyword(s):  
Primary Schools ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetables ◽  
Control Group ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Post Intervention ◽  
Short And Long Term ◽  
Further Development

AbstractObjectivesAlthough previous research has shown that the Food Dudes programme increases children's fruit and vegetable consumption at school, there has been limited evaluation of the extent to which changes are maintained in the long term. Furthermore, despite knowledge that the nutritional content of home-supplied meals is lower than that of school-supplied meals, little consideration has been given to the programme's impact on meals provided from home. The present study therefore assessed the long-term effectiveness of the Food Dudes programme for both school- and home-supplied lunches.DesignTwo cohorts of children participated, one receiving the Food Dudes intervention and a matched control group who did not receive any intervention. Consumption of fruit and vegetables was assessed pre-intervention, then at 3 and 12 months post-intervention. Consumption was measured across five consecutive days in each school using weighed intake (school-provided meals) and digital photography (home-provided meals).SettingFifteen primary schools, six intervention (n 1282) and seven control schools (n 1151).SubjectsParticipants were children aged 4–11 years.ResultsA significant increase in the consumption of fruit and vegetables was found at 3 months for children in the intervention schools, but only for those eating school-supplied lunches. However, increases were not maintained at 12 months.ConclusionsThe Food Dudes programme has a limited effect in producing even short-term changes in children's fruit and vegetable consumption at lunchtime. Further development work is required to ensure the short- and long-term effectiveness of interventions promoting fruit and vegetable consumption in children such as the Food Dudes programme.

scholarly journals Randomized Trial on the5 a Day, the Rio Grande WayWebsite, A Web-based Program to Improve Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Rural Communities

2008 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 230-249 ◽  
Author(s):  
David B. Buller ◽  
W. Gill Woodall ◽  
Donald E. Zimmerman ◽  
Michael D. Slater ◽  
Jerianne Heimendinger ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Rural Communities ◽  
Randomized Trial ◽  
Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Rio Grande ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable Consumption ◽  
Fruit And Vegetable ◽  
Web Based
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