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Food insecurity (FI) affects 11.1% of U.S. households with higher rates for patients in the emergency department (ED) and those with cancer. A convenience sample of patients undergoing cancer treatment at an academic medical center's ED was used to understand FI prevalence using the HFIAS tool. A total of 105 patients enrolled in-person or telephone. FI prevalence was 14.3%. Participants preferred fresh produce, meal delivery service, or money for food compared to food bank services. About 75% felt the COVID-19 pandemic impacted their access to food. FI affects patients with cancer in the ED at higher rates than the US. What is known about this topic? Increased prevalence of food insecurity in patients with cancer Increased prevalence of food insecurity in ED patients Patient perceives food insecurity impacting health outcomes negatively What this paper adds? Prevalence of food insecurity in patients with cancer seeking emergency care during COVID-19 pandemic Patient preference on resources for food access Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on food access [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity affects 1 in 10 Americans and has significant health implications. The University of California, San Diego Student-Run Free Clinic Project implemented the Food Prescription Project providing nutritious food at no cost to patients during medical clinic visits. In a cohort of 409 participants, we utilized the 6-item USDA Food Security Survey throughout our program implementation. At baseline, only 23.2% of participants were food secure, which improved to 41.3% participants over a median follow-up of 33.6 months (p < 0.0001). This model is an effective, low-cost intervention addressing food insecurity in an underserved medical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

American Indians are disproportionately affected by nutrition-related chronic conditions. It is critical to understand Native American food environments that contribute to disparities in nutrition-related conditions. Data from the USDA Food Environment Atlas were used to examine the associations between food environment characteristics, diabetes, obesity, and food insecurity. Counties with the highest percentage of Native American residents had fewer grocery stores and more food insecurity and obesity than counties with fewer Native Americans residents. Future studies may consider evaluating policies or interventions that impact the food environment to assess the effects on obesity and food security outcomes among Native Americans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed food insecurity and its associations with glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) among adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Malawi. A cross-sectional study (n = 428) was conducted in two government hospitals targeting adults with T2DM. Findings show that 40.4% were moderately-to-severely food insecure with a mean A1C of 9.7 ± 2.8%. Food insecurity was positively associated with A1C (p =.011), and negatively with dietary diversity (p =.015). These findings suggest that individuals with T2DM are at greater risk for food insecurity juxtaposed with elevated A1C, which warrants focusing efforts on both sustainable food security programs and nutrition education in diabetes care in Malawi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using annual data from the 2015–16 Poverty Tracker study, this study examined the roles of distance to grocery stores, neighborhood disadvantage, and social cohesion in explaining food insecurity among older adults in New York City. Multiple logistic regressions were conducted to assess these relationships. Results show that greater distance to grocery stores (0.26–0.75 miles vs. 0.00–0.25 miles) and living in more disadvantaged neighborhoods increased the odds of food insecurity. Community social cohesion was a marginally significant protective factor against food insecurity. Findings provide empirical evidence for policy and social program interventions to address food insecurity among older adults. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the quantity and quality of food consumed by Australian Capital Territory and Perth women living in poverty from July to October 2017. Sixty-six women, recruited through charitable food organizations, participated in one-on-one interviews and 24-hr dietary recall. Overall, diet quality was poor. Daily energy intakes ranged between 96 kJ-11450 kJ. 75% of women consumed below the minimum energy requirement for their age. Daily serve recommendations and Estimated Average Requirements for calcium, iron and potassium were not met. Urgent action is needed from government, health, food, and community sectors to address the ongoing challenges faced by women experiencing food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined whether dietary intake differs across household and child food security (FS) status, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation among Black children (ages 9–15) in a low-income urban setting. This cross-sectional survey used the USDA 18-item Household Food Security Survey, which includes the 8-item Child Module, and a validated FFQ to assess children's diet (n = 451). Nutrient intake differed across child FS status, but not household FS. SNAP participation was associated with better micronutrient intake (vitamin D and calcium) among food secure children. Assessing child-specific FS and nutrient adequacy clarifies children's actual experience and informs child-targeted policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food citizenship states individuals, organizations, and governments have responsibilities for their actions and policies around food. We conducted twenty semi-structured interviews with older adults as an exploratory study about perceived food-related responsibilities. The government and agribusiness were seen as responsible for food safety and how healthy foods are. The government, agribusiness, and emergency food providers were seen as responsible for availability and accessibility. Individuals were seen as having a personal responsibility to access and choose healthy, safe foods. These results have important implications for understanding how older adults think about the roles themselves and others play in the food system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined associations between adolescent self-reported hunger, health risk behaviors, and adverse experiences during the 2018–2019 school year. Youth Risk Behavior Survey data were pooled from 10 states. Prevalence ratios were calculated, and we assessed effect measure modification by sex. The prevalence of self-reported hunger was 13%. Self-reported hunger was associated with a higher prevalence of every health risk behavior/adverse experience analyzed, even after adjusting for sex, grade, and race/ethnicity. Sex did not modify associations. Findings underscore needs for longitudinal research with more robust measures of adolescent food insecurity to clarify the temporality of relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine the relationship between food and housing insecurity and the continuation of breastfeeding, interviews were conducted with 203 birthing parents in English or Spanish. The study was conducted between August 2019 and March 2021 in the southeastern U.S. The breastfeeding rate among participants was 52%. Multivariate analysis indicated that birthing parents experiencing housing insecurity were less likely to be breastfeeding at 4 months of infant's age (p =.019). Future research is warranted to understand how housing insecurity might contribute to the discontinuation of breastfeeding through stress, poor rent affordability and the lack of clean and safe environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ryan White Program at Augusta University (AU RWP) collaborated with community partner, Golden Harvest Food Bank (GHFB), and conducted a food insecurity assessment for the program's client population as well as interviews with the Ryan White medical case managers on the feasibility of incorporating food assistance into the Ryan White Program's services. The duel assessments provided insight into ways to meet the food access needs of the clients at the clinic. Further, the pilot allowed AU RWP and GHFB to approach the creation of a partnership without wasting additional funds and effort that would be unsustainable for either organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The South Texas Early Prevention Study-PreK, a cluster randomized trial, explored the Bienestar Coordinated School Health Program's influence on health variables in South Texas children. Factors associated with food insecurity (FI) were analyzed. Income-to-poverty ratio, income, and food assistance (FA) program participation were all associated with FI. Forty percent of families (257/643) reporting FI did not utilize FA. Of those families with FI, but who reported no FA participation, 31.8% were FA eligible. Families experiencing FI may underutilize FA programs, despite eligibility. Curtailing obstacles preventing FA program participation and matching those who are eligible with FA programs are crucial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the relationship between food security status and SNAP enrollment among adults in one rural Appalachian county. This cross-sectional analysis represents one wave of a prospective cohort study. Data were collected via telephone October 2020-January 2021 to assess nutrition assistance use and food security status. There was a significant association between degree of food security and SNAP enrollment status (p <.01) with SNAP and SNAP-eligible participants experiencing higher rates of food insecurity in this persistent poverty county. Findings highlight the importance of designing tailored interventions to address food inequities among rural, low-income populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This cross-sectional analysis of the Minnesota Now Everybody Together for Amazing Healthful Kids (NET-Works) study evaluated whether SNAP participation was associated with specific parental feeding styles and child eating behaviors. Associations between parent-reported feeding styles and child eating behaviors and SNAP participation were examined using multiple linear regression analyses and responses from 534 parent/child dyads (49.1% female children, 91.7% female parents). SNAP participation was not associated with specific feeding styles or child eating behaviors when adjusting for food insecurity, timing in SNAP cycle, and other covariates in this large, ethnically and racially diverse sample of predominantly mothers and preschool-aged children. Other factors, such as food insecurity, not SNAP participation, may influence parental feeding and child eating behaviors, and screening by health care providers is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

US Military Veterans experience higher rates of food insecurity compared to civilians, but the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Veterans is unclear. We conducted a nationwide survey of injured post-9/11 Veterans' food security, Coronavirus exposure, and nutrition habits. Of 193 Veterans, 63 (32.6%) were food insecure. Food insecurity was associated with Hispanic ethnicity (p = 0.02), prior homelessness (p = 0.003), combat service (p < 0.0001), and food-related worries (p = 0.003). Food insecure Veterans were more likely to report anxiety about stigma related to COVID-19 infection (p = 0.007). Nutrition assistance initiatives should attend to emergent psychosocial factors, beyond well-established economic factors, that increase risk for food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically increased the demand for food pantries. Using data from an online survey in early spring 2021, we explored interest in mobile food pantries among US mothers who received food from a food pantry before or during the COVID-19 pandemic (n = 53). Sixty percent were very interested in getting food from a mobile food pantry, 19% were quite a bit interested, and 21% were somewhat interested. Participants liked the convenience and reduced risk of COVID-19 infection but had cleanliness and accessibility concerns. Mobile food pantries may be one approach to address food access among households with children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food banks served a record of 60 million people in 2020, but little is known regarding sources and quality of foods distributed, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic's widespread disruptions. This mixed-methods study examined changes in food bank sourcing in 2020 relative to prior years. Findings highlight food bank-led purchases and federal commodities were used to meet increased food needs. While the inventory of fresh produce decreased proportionally in 2020 versus 2019, it increased in overall poundage by over a million pounds (p < 0.01). These findings have implications for nutritional food ranking across and within food banks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many residents of Atlantic City, New Jersey, a food desert, experience food insecurity. COVID-19, along with summer school closures, compounds this problem. AtlantiCare's Free Summer Meals for Children and Teens helps combat this crisis. This case study provides an overview of the programs and descriptive statistics highlighting participants and their perceptions. Data indicate a positive experience and a high impact on their food insecurity, nutrition, physical and mental health, quality of time with friends and family, and writing and reading skills. This article illustrates how AtlantiCare is helping to close the meal gap and identifies the need for future efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges and successes of local food pantries to meet the needs of the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were completed with a convenience sample of representatives from area food pantries and food banks. Responses indicated that many food pantries remained committed to serving their clients during the pandemic but had to shift operations, focused on community partnerships, and a sustainable volunteer base was a challenge. With the increased need for resources, food pantries can serve the community better by shifting services and create a safe environment for volunteers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic is challenging food security. Our study's purpose was to examine relationships among food security status, eating patterns and perceived barriers to food choices among shareholders (N = 209) in a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program during stay-at-home restrictions due to the pandemic. The food insecure group (n = 33) reported lower consumption of fruits/vegetables, whole grains and greater consumption of fast foods and more barriers to food choices compared to the food secure group (p <.05). A low food insecure proportion (16%) among the CSA participants suggests a potential role of a CSA program to prevent food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to examine implementation of serving food and beverage evidence-based practices (nutrition EBPs) across CACFP participating licensed childcare centers (CCCs, n = 51) and family childcare homes (FCCHs, n = 49) in central California. Results indicated that FCCHs reported significantly higher (p <.05) implementation of nutrition EBPs and barriers than CCCs. Both CCCs and FCCHs refer families to WIC/SNAP when they observe child food insecurity and control how much food is served to children. It is important to consider organizational structure (CCCs, FCCHs) and child food insecurity when developing policies/interventions for improving implementation of nutrition EBPs in ECEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity prevalence among college students has increased. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated food insecurity generally but the particular impact on college students was unclear. In-depth interviews were conducted at four North Carolina universities to determine how the pandemic impacted food access. Students were asked about the food resources they turned to and what universities could do to help. Evidence suggests food access was disrupted during the pandemic for most students, and disruption varied throughout the pandemic. Students provided recommendations for how universities can improve food access. Universities need to better prepare to support food security among students, pandemic or not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the association between experiencing food insecurity and COVID-19 diagnosis in the United States, and what sociodemographic characteristics moderate this relationship. We analyzed a national sample of adults in the United States (n = 6,475). Multiple logistic regression results revealed respondents experiencing food insecurity had an approximately 3.0 times significantly higher odds of a positive COVID-19 diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] = 2.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.38–6.32, p < 0.01), which remained significant after adjusting for sociodemographics and COVID-19 mitigation behaviors (OR = 2.59, 95% CI = 1.09–6.18, p < 0.05). Age group had a significant moderating effect (OR = 42.55, 95% CI = 3.13–579.15, p < 0.01). Results indicate experiencing food insecurity is associated with contracting COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This scoping review aims to describe the main barriers to food security imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic in low-income U.S. households, identify effective community-based implementation frameworks and strategies, and discuss the lessons learned from implementing community-based approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic. Most cited barriers were categorized into the Community/Society-Policy category of "Social determinants of health in communities." Out of the twelve included studies, only five (42%) adopted an implementation framework in their food-insecurity interventions. This study can guide the development and sustainability of food programming during emergencies with possible transfer of lessons learned to food programs in low-income populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to determine the prevalence of household food insecurity (FI) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary analysis was performed using the waves 1 to 3 of the 2020 COVID-19 High Frequency Phone Surveys in 13 LAC countries. The countries with the highest FI in the first wave were Honduras (60.3%), Peru (58.1%) and Ecuador (57.9%). Likewise, the countries with the greatest differences in the prevalence of FI between the first and last waves in percentage points (PP) were Peru (−29), Guatemala (−27.7) and Bolivia (−21.8). LAC countries face a great burden of FI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This survey (n = 1,356) reports food insecurity (FI) in Puerto Rico (PR) at 38% before, and 40% since, the COVID-19 pandemic. Odds for FI increased for households with annual income ≤$15k vs. ≥$60k (OR: 3.52; 95% CI: 1.20, 10.36); experiencing an income reduction (OR: 2.22 (1.55, 3.18)); participating in the United States Department of Agriculture Nutrition Assistance Program (OR: 1.75 (1.14, 2.70)); higher food acquisition anxiety (OR: 1.45 (1.29, 1.64)); increased home availability of fruit-flavored drinks (OR: 1.52 (1.04, 2.22)), whereas increased fruit availability was protective (OR: 0.63 (0.43, 0.93)). Results heighten the need to examine FI strategies in PR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A qualitative formative approach was used to explore food pantry clients' needs, preferences, and recommendations regarding food received from food pantries. Fifty adult clients of six Arkansas food pantries were interviewed in English, Spanish, or Marshallese. Data analysis used the constant comparative qualitative methodology. In choice and minimal choice pantries, three themes emerged: clients need increased quantities of food, particularly more proteins and dairy; clients desire higher quality food, including healthy food and food not close to expiration; and clients desire familiar foods and food appropriate for their health needs. System level policy changes are needed to address clients' recommendations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore the relationship between food insecurity and geographic position in Silver City, NM. Using a survey of more than 100 respondents and desktop GIS analysis, we investigate whether distance, neighborhood, and socioeconomic status have a bearing on access and use of food pantries. Results indicate there is no pronounced relationship between recipience of government benefits and food pantry use, recipience of government benefits and neighborhood of residence, or household income and self-reported distance to a food pantry. Results may appear counterintuitive: Food pantry use has increased in the USA, but the profile of a pantry client is not axiomatic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The emergency food system (EFS) is a critical part of the United States' social safety net. Using 2015–2020 Current Population Survey Food Security Supplement data, we identified trends in EFS use among food insecure, low-income households by estimating the probability of EFS use adjusting for demographics using multivariable logistic regression. From 2015 to 2019, between 31.0% and 34.4% of households received emergency food, while 42.4% did in 2020. EFS use did not increase in 2020 compared to prior years for older adults and non-metropolitan households. Targeted outreach should be used to expand the reach of this resource to underserved and marginalized populations." [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This qualitative study explores the barriers to food security for vulnerable women from the perspective of charity managers within the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Region. Interviews were conducted with six charity managers. Analysis of charity's perspectives identified nine themes across two overarching areas: barriers to charity providing food security services (charity accessibility, inter-charity support and charity reliance on donations) and barriers to women attaining food security (income, accommodation type, transport, women's attitudes and beliefs, stigma/trust and food literacy). Understanding the barriers to women's food security is essential in addressing the underlying social and economic issues creating food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed nutritional quality of foods donated through large-scale food drives. A cross-sectional, photo-based design was used. Donated foods were categorized according to Healthy Eating Research Nutrition Guidelines for Ranking Charitable Food (HER). Means of sodium, saturated fat, and sugar were calculated and compared with HER nutrient guidelines for 4,484 foods. Only 19.4% of donations were categorized as good nutritional quality. No significant differences existed between food drive events. The association between food insecurity, poor diet quality, and poor health outcomes may be mediated by unhealthy foods donated through food drives. Strategies to facilitate healthy food availability are essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective was to assess amount of/reasons for, unused food from client-choice and traditional food pantries through a prospective, observational study. Two weeks after baseline visits, clients estimated percentage of products consumed and reported why unused products were not consumed through interviews. Participants were 28 clients from Baltimore, MD pantries. Clients reported consuming perishable foods first compared to shelf-stable foods. The most common reason for not using items was "plan to use later." There were no significant differences in unused food between pantry models. Future studies on client food waste should include larger samples and longer follow-up periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined consumption of fruits and vegetables, foods with added sugar and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) based on the frequency of food pantry use. A repeated cross-sectional study was conducted among food pantry clients (n = 563) in Omaha, Nebraska. Daily intake of individual dietary items was combined into each final dietary outcome measure and dichotomized: <1 time per day or ≥ times per day. Descriptive statistics were produced, and a logistic regression model was fit. More frequent pantry use was associated with 2.1 times greater odds of consuming foods with added sugar one or more times per day compared to non-pantry users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the emotional aspects of receiving food assistance and how these experiences may affect future assistance seeking. Through interviews with food recipients, our analysis revealed that individuals experience an overwhelming sense of gratitude, but also a sense of powerlessness, and at times a lack of dignity when reaching out for assistance. We explore how individuals directly and indirectly assert their agency to create a positive outcome despite the circumstances. The findings support the importance of accounting for emotions when researching food insecurity because achieving food security takes more than simply providing emergency food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Limited access to healthy food caused by food insecurity makes diabetes mellitus (DM) self-management more challenging. Using data from Hunger in America 2014 (n = 60,122 US food pantry users), we sought to understand food preferences and coping strategy utilization (e.g. choosing between paying for food and medical care) among households seeking assistance from US food pantries with and without DM members. The prevalence of wanting and not obtaining fruits, vegetables, dairy, and protein was high among all households. After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, households with DM members were more likely to want and not obtain fruits, vegetables, and dairy, and were also more likely to use several coping strategies to increase food access, compared to households without DM members. These results highlight the high demand for healthy food items among clients from US food pantries, particularly among households with DM, as well as the extra burden DM may place on food insecure households.

This study examined the prevalence of and identified characteristics associated with food insecurity among students at a midsized university in Utah. A cross-sectional survey of university students (n = 952) was conducted. Nearly 33% (n = 302) of students experienced food insecurity in the past 30 days. A weak, yet significant association was found between food security status and gender, marital status, year in school, employment, use of food assistance, use of other assistance, use of the on-campus food pantry, and parental education level. There is a need for increased awareness of on-campus programs and policies aimed at reducing food insecurity among college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-four percent of college students experience food insecurity. This systematic review describes the characteristics and outcomes of interventions and strategies that address college students with food insecurity to provide best practices for institutions seeking to implement interventions or strategies that aim to support students with food insecurity.. Three electronic databases were searched for peer-reviewed articles and gray literature concerning food aid interventions and strategies. Of the 271 articles identified, eight articles met eligibility criteria and were included. This review offers insight into interventions and strategies that improve nutrient intake, reduce food waste and food aid stigma, and offer long-term benefits or support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity increased across the United States, with college students being particularly vulnerable. This study surveyed 1989 undergraduates attending three public colleges before and during the first year of the pandemic. At all times, students' food insecurity was related to worse academic performance, greater housing insecurity, poorer psychological and physical health, and less access to healthcare. Compared to pre-pandemic students, during-pandemic students reported greater use of and fewer barriers to food programs, spending more on and and receiving more government aid for food, experiencing more academic difficulties due to food insecurity, having greater housing insecurity, and enduring less access to healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As many as two-thirds of American community college students may experience food insecurity. Their struggles are linked to health and academic difficulties and relate to several socioeconomic factors, including stigma regarding food programs. To support students' understanding of and activism regarding food insecurity, student leaders co-created the Playing with Our Food intervention, which reviewed research and played games with students about stigmatized food-related topics. A survey utilizing writing prompts revealed that attendees learned new information, were more likely to use campus programs, and became interested in activism. Other campuses may stage similar interventions to develop students' awareness of food insecurity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Students at universities are experiencing food insecurity, which may be associated with health behaviors. In a pilot study to build a survey that assesses food insecurity and health behaviors among undergraduates, we distributed the survey before (Wave 1; fall 2019) and during (Wave 2; summer 2020) COVID-19. During Wave 1, 41% of students reported food insecurity and 61% met criteria for poor sleep. In Wave 2, 26% reported food insecurity and 49% met criteria for poor sleep. Students experiencing food insecurity were more likely to report poor sleep. This survey will inform recruitment and design of a scaled-up multi-campus study. (100/100 words) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity is widespread among US college students. We examined the impact of participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) on food security status among students at a large public university using a quasi-experimental study. Sequentially adjusted logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of SNAP participation on food insecurity. SNAP participants experienced a 63% decrease in food insecurity from baseline to six months (p <.05). Adjusted models found 89% (95% CI 0.25–0.98) lower odds of food insecurity among program participants. Strategies to increase SNAP use may decrease food insecurity and its associated consequences among college students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated University students' experiences and suggested solutions to food insecurity (N = 16). A questionnaire survey measured students' socio-demography and food security status using Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS). Focus group discussions assessed students' experiences and suggestions, grouped into themes. Half (50%) of the students were male, mean age was 25.1 years and 62% were food insecure. Food insecure students reported skipping meals, and grocery shopping infrequently. Students propose a campus farmers' market, cooking classes, online nutrition education, and financial literacy would address student resource management limitations. Revising financial aid, international study and work guidelines should address systemic gaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic food insecurity in childhood impacts health and academic achievement across the life course. We describe the development of a brief self-report nutrition literacy survey to assess knowledge, attitudes, and intent in a sample of 482 elementary students at high risk for food insecurity. Confirmatory factor analysis revealed two latent factors: food attitudes and nutrition knowledge. Item difficulty ranged from 25% to 94% and an adequate Kuder-Richardson20 of 0.7 was observed for knowledge items. Temporal reliability was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients from a subset of 46 students (p <.05). The survey demonstrates appropriate initial psychometric qualities with low respondent burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined food insecurity in a predominately African American urban food desert via a mail survey designed to identify and describe the conditions, characteristics, and perceptions of residents in this food environment. The results support past research by showing that food insecurity occurs on a regular basis within many of the households but especially among lower income households, those on food-assistance programs, and those without access to a motor vehicle. The study also sheds light on the many barriers that perpetuate food insecurity and the challenges faced by Blacks and other minorities living in urban food-insecure environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore how older adults in rural communities navigate food insecurity, ten focus groups were held in Indiana, USA with 65 discussants. Recordings underwent inductive qualitative data analysis. Driving and transport remain a barrier to rural food access. Living alone is another contributor to food insecurity, while older adults' social networks are protective. Congregate meal sites are critical to maintaining nutrition and are underfunded; one-third of this region's meal sites closed in 2019. These must be maintained and expanded. Transportation to food outlets is needed. Mechanisms that reinforce older adults' social networks can build upon an existing asset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper examined geographic patterns of changes in the density of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) applications at the zip code level in New Orleans, LA in the immediate aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic (March–May 2020), compared to pre-pandemic times (March–May 2019). All zip codes analyzed experienced increases in SNAP application density, ranging from 25% to 360%. While disadvantaged zip codes had higher SNAP application densities at baseline, they experienced a comparatively lower increase across time. Results highlight the staggering need for food assistance as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, including in areas with historically low need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cleaned.Cut.SNAP fruit and vegetable (FV) incentive program provided two weekly discounts of $5 off a $10 FV purchase via a grocery store loyalty card. The purpose of this study was to understand barriers to healthy eating, motivation for incentive use, redemption challenges, and perceived benefits of incentive use among participants. Twenty-two program participants in the 16-week pilot completed 1:1 semi-structured telephone interviews. The incentives helped participants overcome the barrier of affordability w to healthy eating, with cost-savings and improved health being motivators for incentive use. Participants reported purchasing/consuming more FV, improved health, food budgeting, and dietary variety during Cleaned.Cut.SNAP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) Heartland project is a USDA Food Insecurity Nutrition Incentive funded program designed to incentivize the purchase of fruits and vegetables (FV) by Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) clients. This study examined the influence of DUFB Heartland on food security, FV intake, and health-related quality of life. Food-insecure SNAP participants experienced physically (p <.05, d = 0.26) or mentally (p <.001, d = 0.40) unhealthy days more often than those who were food secure. Food-insecure respondents reported more positive effects from DUFB Heartland compared to food-secure respondents (p <.01, V = 0.20). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food environments are associated with diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular health, but associations to colorectal cancer incidence and mortality have not been reported. We analyzed associations between Food Environment Index (FEI) and national adjusted colorectal cancer incidence and mortality rates. Better FEI scores (i.e., environments with less food insecurity and better access to healthy food) were associated with lower colorectal cancer incidence (p <.004) and mortality (p <.0001). Stronger associations were observed in areas with higher percent Black populations. Results suggest that food environments may contribute to colorectal cancer risk, and point to areas for further research on prevention and cancer survivorship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterizing food pantry (FP) clients' FP usage patterns may provide opportunities to tailor health-related interventions. Respondents (n = 245) at seven FPs reported their frequency and reliance on FPs and their sociodemographics, health status, and health-related trade-offs. Clients were categorized via latent class analysis. Higher FP usage was associated with being older, having a household member with heart disease, and putting off buying medicine to buy food. Lower FP usage was associated with higher levels of education and having a household member with cancer. Findings highlight the potential importance of measuring FP clients' degree of FP use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]