Fruit and vegetable access programs and consumption in low-income communities

ABSTRACTStates, cities, and communities are implementing a variety of programs to increase access to fruits and vegetables, but relatively little is known about their impact, especially among low-income populations. To determine factors associated with program utilization and fruit and vegetable consumption, we interviewed 217 participants in three types of programs – farmers market Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) incentives, subsidized farm stands, and subsidized produce bag distribution – as well as a comparison group of 90 non-participants, all in King County, Washington. Demographics and utilization differed by program. Participation in the farmers market SNAP incentive program was positively associated with fruit and vegetable consumption.