Fruit and Vegetable Intake Exceeds National Average Among Food Pantry Clients

Introduction

Increased dietary intake of fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risk of chronic diseases. However, most Americans don’t meet dietary guidelines for fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption, particularly those in low income categories.  MyPlate messages were developed to remind consumers to ‘make half your plate fruits and vegetables.’  The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of the MyPlate icon and this consumer message on dietary intake of FV in food pantry clients. 

Methods

The study was a quasi-experimental, non-equivalent, control group design.   Participants from three pantries (providing weekly access to fresh fruits and vegetables) were randomly assigned to intervention or control group.   Intervention participants received laminated copies of MyPlate and consumer message, ‘make half your plate fruits and vegetables’ to be viewed daily at home for 1 month.  

Outcomes measured (baseline, study end):  FV intake, perceived diet healthfulness, FV behavioral intention. 

Results

79 participants met study criteria and were randomized; 53 completed follow up assessments.   No significant differences in FV consumption (p<.53), FV behavioral intention (p <.9) and perceived diet healthfulness (p< .3) were found between intervention and control groups. 

Discussion

This study is first of its kind to examine effects of daily exposure to MyPlate and consumer message on FV intake in food pantry clients.  Though the MyPlate icon and consumer message did not impact intake, regular access to FV may have contributed to reported consumption of 4 servings of FV daily – nearly 1 serving greater than US average of 3.04.