Abstract
Despite the evidence that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the risk for obesity and chronic diseases, low-income Americans do not consume recommended intakes. Farmers’ market incentives and nutrition education through SNAP-Ed have been promoted as effective intervention strategies to decrease perceived barriers associated with poor intake of fruits and vegetables in this population. This study investigated how the combination of farmers’ market incentives and SNAP-Ed nutrition education influences the beliefs, values, and experiences among participants. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was reached. Fourteen low-income individuals receiving farmers’ market incentives and SNAP-Ed nutrition education were interviewed. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and themes were developed using grounded theory. Participants reported that farmers’ market incentives decreased barriers associated with consuming fruits and vegetables such as cost, availability, and accessibility. Participating in SNAP-Ed education sessions was also found to reduce barriers such as a lack of knowledge and self-efficacy about how to prepare, store, and cook produce. Participants reported consuming a greater amount and larger variety of fruits and vegetables when they received incentives to use at the farmers’ market. Furthermore, participants indicated the incentives allowed them to provide their families with fruits and vegetables that they wouldn’t typically be able to afford. Farmers’ market incentives coupled with nutrition education reduced common barriers to fruit and vegetable intake among SNAP participants. This combination of interventions may be an effective way to increase fruit and vegetable consumption.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call