Headline
Systematic review finds that fruit and vegetable incentive programs reduce food insecurity, increase fruit and vegetable consumption, and improve blood glucose levels among low-income populations.
Background
Fruit and vegetable incentive (FVI) programs, similar in nature to produce prescription programs, offer potential to improve health outcomes by directly addressing access to nutritious food, a key determinant of health. This systematic review examined the effectiveness of FVI programs targeted to populations with lower incomes in reducing food insecurity, increasing fruit and vegetable consumption, and improving health outcomes.
Findings
The review included 30 studies published through February 2023. Thirteen of 14 datapoints from 12 studies indicated FVI programs reduced household food insecurity. Twenty-one of 29 datapoints from 23 studies showed increased fruit and vegetable consumption. Programs providing incentives to participants at risk for or diagnosed with diet-related health conditions improved blood glucose levels by a median of 0.64 percentage points. The review found minimal effects on blood pressure and no significant impact on adult body mass index.
Policy/Program Takeaways
Health care organizations can consider implementing FVI programs as an effective strategy for improving both food security and health outcomes, particularly among low-income populations who are disproportionately impacted by food insecurity.