Assessing the Impact of Multilevel Comprehensive Programming on SNAP-Ed Participant Behaviors.

Abstract

To examine differences in dietary, physical activity, and food selection behaviors of Utah SNAP-Ed participants who had varied breadth of engagement with various components of multilevel programming. SNAP-Ed participants received a survey approximately 1 year after participating in nutrition classes. The survey measured diet, physical activity, and food selection behaviors and breadth of engagement with components of SNAP-Ed programming. Components of programming included nutrition education for adults and youth, nudge programs in food pantries and corner stores, farmers' market booths, social marketing campaign materials, and social media platforms. Kruskal-Wallis tests assessed differences in behaviors between varying breadths of program engagement. Among the 124 respondents, certain dietary behaviors improved with increased breadth of program engagement including intake of vegetables, low-fat dairy, and lean protein. Food selection behaviors including using MyPlate and preparing healthy foods on a budget, also improved with increased engagement. Physical activity was not impacted by additional breadth of exposure. Findings suggest that multilevel comprehensive programming may enhance the impact of SNAP-Ed education for certain behaviors. Additional research is warranted on the impact of SNAP-Ed multilevel programming on targeted behaviors and health outcomes.