Headline
Systematic review shows produce prescription programs improve food security, reduce blood glucose levels among patients with diabetes, and have mixed evidence for other health outcomes.
Background
Produce prescription programs, whereby a health care provider provides individuals who have or are at risk for diet-related conditions with a prescription or voucher for the purchase of fruits and vegetables, can be implemented to address food and nutrition security and improve health outcomes. This systematic review examined the impact of produce prescription programs on food security, fruit and vegetable intake, and cardiovascular disease risk factors in both child/family and adult populations.
Findings
The review analyzed 20 studies conducted between August 2012 and April 2023. All five studies that measured food security status reported significant improvements after program participation, regardless of population. Approximately half of the included studies found significant increases in fruit and/or vegetable intake. Health outcome findings varied by population group. The strongest evidence was for A1c reduction in adults with type 2 diabetes; all studies focusing on patients with elevated A1c at baseline showed significant improvements. Results for blood pressure and cholesterol levels were inconsistent.
Policy/Program Takeaways
Produce prescription programs provide consistent evidence for improving food security and increasing fruit and vegetable consumption. For health outcomes, they show the most promise for adults with type 2 diabetes. Health care organizations should consider implementing produce prescription programs particularly for populations with food insecurity and diabetes.