Tracking the nutrient profile of food bank inventory

Abstract

In 2000, the Emergency Food Assistance System (EFAS) distributed 3 billion lb of food, equal to 2.3 billion meals (standard ratio of 1.3 lb food/meal). The United Food Bank (UFB) recently implemented a unique management tool Nutrient Tracking Enhancement System [NTES] to evaluate the nutrient value of food donations vs. the traditional reporting of weight/poundage. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of NTES in [a] tracking the nutrient profile of food donations (% DV per 3 “meals” or 3.9 lb food distributed) and [b] utilizing data to target food purchases/donations to improve nutrient profiles. Protein, Vitamin C, and folate profiles remained high from FY 03-04 through 04-05; iron and zinc profiles remained far too low and Vitamin A profile dropped significantly due in large part to loss of a major nonfat dry milk donor. In response to the nutrient profiles shown, the management of UFB is [a] using their discretionary funds to purchase Vitamin A rich canned vegetables and iron/zinc rich canned meats and legumes; [b] securing additional donations of Vitamin A rich produce from local growers; [c] providing community donors with specific food requests, and [d] using USDA entitlement purchases for Vitamin A, iron, and zinc rich foods. It is anticipated that these interventions will enhance Vitamin A, iron, and zinc profiles over the next two quarters. Research supported by United Parcel Service Foundation and Catholic Healthcare West Charities.