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(1) To describe facilitators and barriers to the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) food shopping via electronic benefits transfer (eWIC) compared with paper vouchers. (2) To explore suggestions that WIC participants had for modifying the program to enhance their overall WIC experience. Qualitative, semistructured, in-depth interviews. WIC participants in East Tennessee. Twenty-four primary food shoppers of WIC-participating households aged at least 18 years were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy. Perceived facilitators and barriers to use of eWIC as compared with paper vouchers. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a grounded theory approach to identify emergent themes. Participants identified several ways eWIC has improved their food shopping experience, including ad hoc redemption of WIC benefits and a quicker, more discrete checkout. Participants' chief complaint about eWIC was transaction errors at checkout. Participants identified other barriers to shopping for WIC foods that cannot be addressed by the card alone, such as difficulty identifying WIC items in-store. Participants reported changes to their benefit tracking behaviors and provided suggestions to improve WIC further. The transition to eWIC was viewed favorably among WIC participants, although participants identified a need for additional support in addressing transaction errors. This finding presents an opportunity to modify messages delivered to WIC participants by WIC nutrition educators and enhance collaboration between WIC agencies, retailers, and e-commerce technology providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To explore the barriers associated with the adoption of the Alberta Nutrition Guidelines for Children and Youth in schools according to characteristics of the innovation (guidelines) and the organization (schools). Design: Cross-sectional telephone survey. Setting and Participants: Schools in Alberta, Canada. Principals from 357 schools. Main Outcome Measure: Barriers to adopting the nutrition guidelines. Analysis: A 19-question telephone survey, including open- and closed-ended questions, was used to obtain information regarding schools' characteristics and barriers to adopting the guidelines. Qualitative data were coded according to common themes a priori, based on constructs from the Diffusion of Innovations framework. Results: Schools reported many barriers related to the relative advantage, compatibility, and complexity of adopting the guidelines. Parents' resistance to change and cost were the key reported barriers. Lack of knowledge, student preferences, the physical location of the school, and barriers related to the provision of healthful food were also reported. Conclusions and Implications: Disseminating guidelines without providing adequate support for their implementation may not promote change within the school setting. School nutrition initiatives need to involve the parents and have access to sufficient financial and human resource support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents information on the position of the Society for Nutrition Education (SNE) with U.S. Congress regarding the Improved Nutrition and Physical Activity Act (IMPACT). The efforts made by the Congress to address obesity and overweight through the IMPACT bill are applauded by SNE. SNE, which is an international organization of nutrition education professionals, represents the unique professional interests of nutrition educators in the U.S. and worldwide. Some of the key provisions addressed in the U.S. Congress Senate IMPACT legislation are supported by SNE.

The article discusses reports published within the issue, including one by C. K. Miller and P. Branscum on recessions and food choice and one by S. M. Downs, A. Farmer and M. Quintanilha et al. on nutrition guidelines in schools, and offers the author's thoughts on the journal's impact.

Food and nutrition insecurity exist at an alarming rate in the US educational system, ranging from 17% among K-12 students up to 58.8% among university students. Many Muslim American students face food and nutrition insecurity due, in part, to a lack of acknowledgment of student adherence to halal dietary guidelines and the availability of certified halal options at school. This has implications for health, learning, and social outcomes. In this perspective paper, we provide short-term, mid-term, and long-term recommendations to address food and nutrition insecurity among halal-observant students to advance healthy dietary patterns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes the 30-year evolution of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program-Education (SNAP-Ed) to provide evidence to support our perspective that SNAP-Ed has earned its position as a pillar of the public health infrastructure in the US. Legislatively designated as a nutrition education and obesity prevention program, its focus is the nearly 90 million Americans with limited income. This audience experiences ongoing health disparities and is disproportionately affected by public health crises. The SNAP-Ed program works to reduce nutrition-related health disparities at all levels of the Social-Ecological Model, follows a robust evaluation framework, and leverages strong partnerships between state-based practitioners, state agencies, and the US Department of Agriculture. The expansion of SNAP-Ed would enable the program to reach more Americans so that our nation can end hunger and reduce diet-related health disparities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examine the relationship between nutrition knowledge, diet quality, and eating behavior among active-duty US Army Soldiers. Cross-sectional study with data collection in February 2018 via paper surveys during the validation of the Military Eating Behavior Survey. Among 440 US Army Soldiers, nutrition knowledge was positively and significantly associated with diet quality (b = 0.29, P < 0.001). For every 1-point increase in nutrition knowledge, the Healthy Eating Index-2015 score was expected to increase by 0.29 points. Nutrition knowledge was not significantly associated with skipping breakfast (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.98–1.04) or dining out (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 0.98–1.03). The outcomes of this study warrant further investigation to determine what interventions provide the strongest outcomes for improving nutrition knowledge and diet quality, as well as create and support an environment that enhances healthy behaviors regarding nutrition that lead to improved diet quality among active-duty Soldiers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food insecurity is a major concern in rural Appalachia and on college campuses. To combat the problem, Marshall University Department of Dietetics operates a campus food pantry serving students and the community by providing nutrient dense foods and education in an effort to improve access to healthy food and encourage healthy behaviors. To better understand the background and needs of pantry clients to provide the most appropriate and needed services/education. A 24 item pilot survey was administered over two weeks via pen/paper or electronically to clients during a pantry visit. It utilized open ended, multiple choice, and Likert scale responses to gather data related to demographics, food and nutrition attitudes and behaviors, and suggestions/concerns. Qualtrics was utilized to input and analyze survey data. Descriptive statistics were calculated related to client background, pantry use, hunger and food availability issues, current nutrition knowledge and behaviors, and potential for nutrition related behavior change. Twenty-six surveys were collected and analyzed and determined the majority of users (85%) were community members, not students, and half used the pantry weekly. Major grocery distributors were the other primary source of food procurement with only one client using a local farmers' market. Seventy-three percent reported skipping meals in the past month due to lack of food at home. Nearly all (96.0%) had access to basic cooking tools and equipment, and half had prepared recipes at home that they received from the pantry. Overall, most "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that the pantry allows them to try a wide variety of healthy foods, is accessible, and improves self-efficacy related to preparing and consuming nutrient dense foods. The pantry is meeting the primary objectives of improving access to healthy foods and encouraging healthy behaviors. Additionally, survey construction provides appropriate information to collect required data for making informed decisions regarding food procurement and nutrition education programming. The pilot survey was successful and ready for further distribution. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the quality of food and physical activity (PA) environments by World Bank Income level in jurisdictions from the Children's Healthy Living Program. Baseline cross-sectional community data were analyzed from 11 jurisdictions categorized by World Bank Income levels to describe exposure to different food and PA outlets. The Children's Healthy Living Program was a multilevel, multijurisdictional prevalence study and community intervention trial that reduced child obesity in the US-Affiliated Pacific region. US-Affiliated Pacific region. Food (n = 426) and PA (n = 552) Outlets. Physical activity and food scores that reflect the quality of the outlets that support being physically active and healthy eating options, respectively. Descriptive statistics are presented as means ± SD or percentages. High-income-income level jurisdictions had higher food and PA scores than middle-income level jurisdictions. The US-Affiliated Pacific region has limited quality food and PA outlets in underserved communities at risk for obesity. The findings in this paper can be used to develop tools and design interventions to improve the food and PA environment to increase a healthier, active lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ingestive behaviors (IBs) (eg, bites, chews, oral processing, swallows, pauses) have meaningful roles in enhancing satiety, promoting fullness, and decreasing food consumption, and thus may be an underused strategy for obesity prevention and treatment. Limited IB monitoring research has been conducted because of a lack of accurate automated measurement capabilities outside laboratory settings. Self-report methods are used, but they have questionable validity and reliability. This paper aimed to present a conceptual model in which IB, specifically slow eating, supported by technological advancements, contributes to controlling hedonic and homeostatic processes, providing an opportunity to reduce energy intake, and improve health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intuitive eating interventions aim to improve individual health and promote sustainable changes to one's relationship with food. However, there is no evidence-based consensus on the impact of intuitive eating interventions on diet quality. This systematic review aimed to investigate intuitive eating interventions and their impact on diet quality. PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched to October 2021 for studies reporting interventions that encompassed the principles of intuitive eating and measured diet quality. Other health outcomes were used for secondary analysis. Findings were synthesized narratively. Seventeen papers reporting 14 intervention studies (n = 3,960) were included in the review. All studies found a positive or neutral effect on diet quality following an intuitive eating intervention. A favorable change in eating behavior following these interventions was also observed. Intuitive eating promotes an attunement to the body, which aids in improving diet quality because of increased awareness of physiological cues. The reduction of emotional and binge eating may also increase diet quality. Findings from the current review suggest that intuitive eating interventions are most effective face-to-face, in a group setting, and sustained for at least 3 months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the effectiveness of Shop Smart Tennessee (SSTN) in engaging small food retailers in promoting healthy food items and impacting consumer purchasing Research has shown the food retail environment, including accessibility and affordability of foods, is an important component of dietary choices. As a strategy to increase consumers' ability and motivation to purchase healthier foods, food retail work is a critical component of a multipronged approach to address chronic disease prevention (CDC, 2014). Using the Theory of Planned Behavior and reciprocal determinism, SSTN works with small food retailers - mostly rural - to implement strategies to encourage healthy food choices. Additionally, by engaging consumers, SSTN seeks to increase demand of healthier foods such as low-calorie beverages, whole grains, lean proteins, and fruit. Target audiences included small food retailers and shoppers of SNAP/EBT accepting stores in low-income census tracts from 2021-2023. SSTN is an eight-week SNAP-Ed food retail program designed to encourage consumers to make healthy food selections. SSTN uses weekly taste testing, educational materials, behavioral economics approaches, and social media to achieve program goals. Additionally, SSTN educators work with retailers to implement store environmental changes and stocking enhancements designed to promote healthy choices. Evaluation data were collected through a standardized store assessment conducted at the start of the intervention, post-intervention retailer interviews, and paper surveys distributed to consumers during final sessions. Since 2021, SSTN has been implemented in 31 stores reaching over 9,100 consumers. 370 adults completed surveys. Fifty-six percent (n=209) of respondents reported they purchased promoted foods as a result of the in-store taste testings. Twenty store managers completed surveys. During program delivery, 40% (n=8) managers started stocking new healthy items and 42% (n=9) increased their stock of current healthy items. SSTN effectively engaged food retailers and positively impacted consumer demand for healthier foods demonstrating the ability of small food retail interventions to benefit both customers and store owners. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Education [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate the impact of nutrition education training for Cambodian teachers. Despite the importance of nutritious diets, many people do not have access to sufficient amounts of nutritious foods. In Cambodia, over half the population (51.1%) experiences moderate-severe food insecurity and almost 5% of the population are undernourished. The prevalence of wasting and stunting among children younger than five is 9.6% and 33.8%, respectively. Interventions to address food insecurity in school settings, including interventions to make nutritious foods accessible and provide nutrition education, have been recommended to improve nutritional status. Teachers attending the nutrition education training. Nutrition faculty at the University of Tennessee implemented a two-day nutrition education training for teachers at an art school in Battambang, Cambodia. Training topics were identified during discussions with school administrators and included nutrition needs across the lifespan, the Cambodian food pyramid, evidence-based strategies to encourage fruit and vegetable consumption, and the benefits of nutrition education in schools. Hands-on nutrition education activities incorporating art, agriculture, and produce from school gardens were demonstrated. School teachers completed an anonymous paper survey to provide feedback about the effectiveness and usefulness of the nutrition education training (n = 11 with complete survey data). A translator was available to assist with survey completion, as needed. All teachers agreed the nutrition education materials developed for the training would benefit students at their school. Most teachers agreed the training helped them better understand why healthy diets are important (91%) and increased their confidence in providing nutrition education (73%). Over half of teachers (55%) reported they plan to use the nutrition education materials demonstrated during the training in their classrooms. Teachers reported a need for additional training with more in-depth information about nutrition topics. The nutrition education training helped increase the capacity of Cambodian teachers to deliver nutrition education. Future research can help assess the benefits of nutrition education in Cambodian schools. USAID [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood and adolescent obesity are a significant public health concern in the United States and globally. There are gaps in understanding the role of the home food environment (HFE) and parental influence in shaping children's eating habits and weight outcomes. Examine the broader perspective of the HFE and its association with parenting food practices and obesity outcomes among children and adolescents. Using a systematic review approach, three databases (PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Academic Search Premier) were searched using combinations of keywords, such as "parents", "parents feeding practice", "parental influences", or "parental influence on food" combined with "home food environment", "childhood obesity", or "adolescent obesity." Intervention or observational study designs were included if parents implement changes at home and the HFE measures were reported by the parent, adolescent, or a researcher. The included papers are peer-reviewed, full-text articles, published in English. The PRISMA checklist guided this review. We examined parent influence within the physical (food availability) and social (parent-child interactions) domains of HFE on children's weight outcomes. For study quality assessment, three tools from the National Institute of Health were used depending on the design. Thirty-three relevant studies were identified, with five rated as good quality, twelve as fair, and sixteen as poor. The most studied influential factors were parental restriction, pressure to eat, and availability of food types in the home. The social domains of HFE such as eating meals together as a family, having the TV or other media off during mealtimes, and pressure to eat were all negatively associated with childhood obesity in most studies. Most studies found no association between parental influence in the physical HFE and childhood/adolescent obesity. Targeted interventions in combating childhood obesity, focusing on the parental influence in the HFE are needed. Future research should explore bidirectional associations, multiple caregivers, and potential confounding variables to better understand the relationship between parental influence, HFE, and obesity. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) is a network of farmer's markets, mobile markets, and community food stores across Virginia. VFM locations offer nutrition incentives that double the value of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars spent on fruits and vegetables. Federal emergency allotments for SNAP ended in March 2023 and Virginians experienced cuts to SNAP benefits (average $82/month). Little is known about the impact of benefit reductions on household food security and shopping habits of nutrition incentive program participants. To determine the impact of the reduction in SNAP benefits on VFM customers' food security status and shopping habits at local markets. Customers using SNAP-EBT and VFM were asked to complete a cross-sectional survey from the Nutrition Incentive Program Training, Technical Assistance, Evaluation, and Information Center (NTAE) with additional VFM-specific questions. Paper surveys (n=215) were collected on-site at VFM outlets and entered into Qualtrics. The survey included sections on demographics, program participation, shopping experience, the impact of SNAP benefit cuts, and the USDA Household Food Security Survey Module (6-item). Descriptive statistics were computed. Although 23% of VFM customers experienced no cuts, nearly half (45%) faced a reduction in their SNAP benefits of at least $100 per month. From 2022 to 2023, participants experienced a 5 percentage point increase in household food insecurity, and 60% reported low or very low food security in 2023. Customers with very low food security (49%) and low food security (51%) were more likely to report cuts of at least $100 per month compared to those with high food security (29%). Customers (76%) struggled to purchase enough food, and 74% experienced high stress due to the loss of benefits. VFM customers disclosed shopping for food less often (69%) and changing how (81%) and where (72%) they shop. Customers with lower food security experienced steeper SNAP cuts, further jeopardizing the quality and quantity of their food, and thereby increasing their stress. NIFA, Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the implementation and process evaluation of Virginia Fresh Match (VFM) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) nutrition incentives during the COVID-19 pandemic years 2021 and 2022 and how VFM benefits helped families sustain during the pandemic. During the pandemic, the federal government temporarily increased SNAP benefits. However, with strain on the food system, access to outlets that accept SNAP may be limited. Little is known about the efforts of SNAP nutrition incentive programs implementation and effectiveness during COVID-19. Virginian SNAP recipients and VFM outlets offering nutrition incentives. VFM is a statewide network of community food outlets that offer nutrition incentives that double the value of Virginians' SNAP benefits when used to purchase fruits and vegetables (FV). Outlet participation and SNAP incentive redemptions were tracked via Smartsheet. Paper versions of the Nutrition Incentive Program Training, Technical Assistance, Evaluation, and Information Center (NTAE) core metrics survey, with additional VFM-specific questions, were used to collect data from SNAP participants (n=107). Between 2021 and 2022, VFM increased the number of participating outlets from 83 to 117 (41% increase) with a 26.5% increase in the number of participating farmers. There was a 30% increase in incentive redemptions between 2021 ($633,000) and 2022 ($823,000). Between 2021 and 2022, 69% of shoppers worried about having enough food. COVID-19 made it harder to make ends meet (59%) and eat fresh produce (47%). A total of 94% of shoppers bought more produce because of VFM, and 92% used all their VFM funds. A majority (96%) reported positive or very positive experiences with VFM and 97% would use more VFM funds if available. The increase in incentive redemptions demonstrates VFM's success in meeting community needs during the pandemic. There was increased purchasing power of FV as nearly all shoppers used the funds allocated to them, indicating the successful implementation of VFM. NIFA, Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While initially created as a temporary community resource for emergency food needs, the charitable food system is a regular food source for many low-income Americans. Little is known about the characteristics of statewide charitable food program clients, including those receiving government food assistance benefits (eg, SNAP, WIC). To describe characteristics of charitable food program clients that receive government food assistance programs in Georgia. We conducted a cross-sectional online or paper survey in a convenience sample of adult clients from 165 select charitable food programs (N=1,746, mean age: 51.4±16.5 years, 75.3% female, 51.1% African American) as part of the Georgia Hunger Study, a statewide mixed methods needs assessment. The survey was pilot-tested and offered in English and Spanish. We assessed sociodemographic characteristics, financial hardship, food insecurity, and participation in and barriers to using SNAP. Descriptive statistics were analyzed. About 45% of clients reported receiving assistance from at least one government food assistance program; SNAP being the most frequently used (38.9%). Those receiving both government and charitable food assistance were more likely to be younger, have households with children, and complete at least some college than those receiving charitable food assistance only. They also reported higher levels of food insecurity and tradeoff decisions between food and other necessities. More than half reported these programs did not meet their food needs. About 44% of those using only charitable food assistance had previously applied for SNAP. Key reported barriers to using SNAP include inadequate benefits amounts, income and asset ineligibility, and complicated application processes. While most charitable food assistance clients applied for or received government food assistance, many struggle to meet their food needs. Findings suggest the need to improve the adequacy, delivery, and coordination of government and charitable food assistance programs. USDA, Georgia Department of Human Services [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The school environment can enable and support healthy behaviours in children and the wider school community. To enhance this environment, it is important to understand what constitutes a school food environment, ie, how is it defined? and the characteristics of these. Currently there are varied approaches to defining school food environments in the literature. To identify and summarise how school food environments are defined in the literature and the characteristics of these. A scoping review process, utilising a protocol developed a-priori and following the JBI methodology for scoping reviews, searched for all evidence that aims to define, describe, conceptualize and measure the school food environment in early childhood, primary and secondary school communities within a global context (quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods studies published in peer-review journals, and grey literature sources like government, organisation or research reports, theses and dissertations). A timeframe of 2001–2023 was used. Summary sheets, conference abstracts and opinion papers were excluded. 10,806 sources were initially identified. After checking for duplicates and undertaking title/abstract, and full text screening by at least two independent reviewers, 276 studies were included for data extraction using Covidence. Excel and NVivo were used for analysis. Data was categorised and presented by regional characteristics, with key themes summarised. Of 276 studies included, 76 defined the school food environment. The majority were from North America (n=27), while n=10 used a global focus. Sources included studies that focused on internal (within the defined school grounds/boundary), external (outside of the defined school grounds/boundary), or both spaces. Definitions varied with reference to policy, formal/informal food vendors/retail, food composition, labelling, education, marketing, and buildings/facilities included. Sociocultural, political, and economic surroundings were also identified. Varied definitions of what constitutes a school food environment exist in the literature. These findings may assist researchers and professionals to consider a broad range of opportunities to further enhance supportive food and nutrition environments within schools. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To provide an immersive experience connecting consumers to local agriculture to improve healthier meal preparation. Use of Research: Agritourism educational events have the ability to increase knowledge of locally grown produce, increase sales, change knowledge, and increase consumption of produce (Brune et., al. 2021). Adults. A partnership between a local farm and an extension agent began in the Fall of 2021 to bring a seasonal program to the farm's market. Weekly 1-hour classes featuring seasonal produce grown on the farm or locally were developed. The sessions consisted of nutrition information, cooking inspiration, storage, knife skills, food waste, and food safety. A cooking demonstration with a featured recipe was provided with sampling. Each participant received an educational handout to support the session. The agent brought in all cooking equipment for each weekly class. All produce required for recipe testing and classes was donated by the farm. Any additional items were secured by the agent and were covered by the $3 program fee. Due to the success, the program has continued each spring and fall season since 2021. Evaluation was completed using a paper survey provided and collected at the end of each class. The survey data was entered into Qualtrics to assess and summarize the impacts. Since inception 33 classes with 508 total participants with 88% (447) completing post program surveys. The results indicated a knowledge gain of 86% (383) how to prepare fresh produce, 68% (302) utilizing fresh herbs in a recipe, 75% (333) freezing fresh produce, 84% (376) healthy cooking methods to prepare fresh produce, 61% (274) reducing food waste when preparing fresh produce, 55% (248) health benefits of fresh produce, and 68% (305) food safety. This unique format of education provides access to local produce, an experience to gain culinary and health related knowledge, try new foods, adopt eating practices for better health and apply principles to improve health outcomes. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary quality is a driver of overweight/obesity and poor school readiness among preschool (3-5 years) children from low-resource backgrounds. Head Start teachers are key partners in promoting healthy eating through food-based learning (FBL); however, time and competing priorities are cited barriers to FBL. Previously, teachers suggested integrating nutrition with other learning domains (eg, science) may alleviate these barriers. Assess teachers' perceptions of programmatic barriers, supports, and impact on science teaching after implementing More PEAS Please!, a multi-level intervention designed to improve preschooler's early science learning experiences and exposure to healthy foods through teacher-led FBL. The PEAS intervention was designed using Social Cognitive Theory and the Interconnected Model of Teacher Professional Growth. A 2020 needs assessment explored teachers' prior exposure to professional development and current FBL/science classroom practices. Head Start teachers in 3 eastern North Carolina counties PEAS consisted of a 1-day pre-service workshop, followed by 6 learning modules (online or paper-based) completed over 6-months. Each module featured training videos, goal-setting, 4 science learning activities featuring fresh vegetables (16 total), and a reflection. The research team provided technical support and guided professional learning communities. Twenty-four teachers participated in PEAS. Teachers completed formative evaluations at the end of each module and a final summative evaluation after implementing the activities to assess barriers, supports, and impact on their science teaching. All tools were evaluated for face and content validity and cognitively evaluated among teachers. Evaluation results revealed time and technological difficulties were barriers. Children's interest in the topic and PEAS administration were teachers' biggest support. Module videos and PEAS Teaching Guide were the most helpful resources. All teachers felt the program positively impacted their ability to provide engaging science learning using healthy foods. Addressing teachers needs during the intervention was critical, such as on-the-ground assistance from our team and converting online modules to paper-based to address time and technological barriers. National Institute of General Medical Sciences of the National Institutes of Health under Award no. R25GM132939. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper identifies implementation leadership characteristics in the school nutrition setting and places findings in the context of implementation leadership literature. Fourteen interviews were conducted with school district leadership/staff in an urban school district. Modified grounded theory was employed. Four themes emerged: (1) understanding of technical/operational intervention details; (2) ability to proactively develop and communicate plans; (3) supervisory oversight; and (4) intervention framing. Themes were consistent with 4 of the 5 dimensions comprising the Implementation Leadership Scale: knowledgeable, proactive, perseverant, and distributed leadership. The supportive domain was not a major finding. An additional domain, how leaders message the intervention to staff, was identified. Implementation leadership in school nutrition appears similar, but not identical, to leader behaviors present in the Implementation Leadership Scale. School nutrition leaders might consider involving staff early in implementation planning, incorporating technical expertise, and clearly communicating the intervention purpose to support successful implementation. Future research might explore the interplay between leadership and implementation outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition education and behavior research is essential for translating scientific nutrition-related evidence into actionable strategies at the individual, family, community, and policy levels. To enhance the impact of nutrition educators and researchers' efforts, there is a need for continued and directed support to sustain the rigor of research. It is the perspective of this paper that the field of nutrition education and behavior research address its inherent complexities to meet the diverse investigative strategies used by academicians as well as practitioners. Such strategies could ensure the role of nutrition education and behavior in ongoing nationwide efforts to address emerging and novel nutrition research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identify types of food packaging used in school nutrition programs and competing priorities, barriers, and facilitators for sustainable packaging waste use and recovery. Qualitative interviews (n = 20) and structured kitchen observations were conducted. Data were collected from 3 school districts in Northern Colorado. Three nutrition program directors, 14 kitchen managers, and 3 sustainability staff. Barriers and facilitators for sustainable food packaging waste practices among school nutrition programs. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, followed by inductive content analysis to identify themes. Commonly used food packaging included cardboard, aluminum, paper, plastic, and styrofoam. Four competing priorities were identified as impacting school nutrition programs' ability to reduce or recover food packaging: serving line speed, labor, food quality, and cost. One key barrier was that school staff had difficulty understanding the total system impact of their food packaging use and recovery decisions. Food packaging is commonly used in school nutrition programs, and participants felt that its use offered key benefits, such as facilitating faster serving lines. More research is needed to quantify the direct and indirect impacts of packaging waste reduction and recovery in school nutrition programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To identify participant characteristics and study methodology that influenced the completion of a 15-month community-based longitudinal study evaluating the impact of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program. Observational longitudinal 15-month study across 12 data collection timepoints. Sociodemographic characteristics were collected with a paper-based survey at baseline. Five counties across central and southern Illinois. Women, aged 18 to 65 years (n = 297), recruited at sites likely to serve families eligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education and Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (housing departments, child care centers, etc). Predictors of participant attrition during the study duration. Cox proportional hazard models. Ninety-seven participants were retained across the full study. In unadjusted models, greater income and education levels were significantly related to lower attrition; however, this relationship did not persist in a multivariate model. When adjusted for other characteristics, larger household size was the only measured variable significantly related to greater odds of attrition (odds ratio = 1.09; 95% confidence interval = 1.02, 1.17). Several characteristics predicting attrition in other settings were not significant in this study. Future attrition analyses that evaluate social support, transportation capacity, and type of phone in longitudinal nutrition education studies are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Dietary self-monitoring is linked to improved weight loss success. Mobile technologies, such as smartphone applications (apps), might allow for improved dietary tracking adherence. The authors assessed the use of a popular smartphone app for dietary self-monitoring and weight loss by comparing it with traditional diet counseling and entry methods. Methods: Diet tracking and weight loss were compared across participants during an 8-week weight loss trial. Participants tracked intake using 1 of 3 methods: the mobile app “Lose It!”, the memo feature on a smartphone, or a traditional paper-and-pencil method. Results: App users (n = 19) recorded dietary data more consistently compared with the paper-and-pencil group (n = 15; P = .042) but not the memo group (n = 13). All groups lost weight over the course of the study (P = .001), and no difference in weight loss was noted between groups. Conclusions and Implications: Smartphone apps could represent a novel and feasible dietary self-monitoring method for individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Assess validity of the ecSatter inventory (ecSI) to measure eating competence (EC). Design: Concurrent administration of ecSI with validated measures of eating behaviors using on-line and paper-pencil formats. Setting: The on-line survey was completed by 370 participants; 462 completed the paper version. Participants: Participants included 863 adults with 832 usable surveys from respondents (mean age 36.2 ± 13.4 years) without eating disorders, mostly female, white, educated, overweight, physically active, and food secure. Of those indicating intent to complete the on-line survey, 80.3% did so; 54% of mailed surveys were returned. Variables Measured: Eating and food behaviors compared among EC tertiles and between dichotomous EC categories; internal consistency of ecSI. Analysis: Analysis of variance, independent t tests, chi-square, factor analysis, logistic regression. Significance level was P < .05. Results: Mean ecSI score was 31.1 ± 7.5. ecSI included 4 subscales with internal reliability and content validity. Construct validity was supported by specific behavioral profiles for ecSI tertiles and ecSI dichotomized categories. Persons unsatisfied with weight were 54% less likely to be EC; unit increase in the food like index was associated with nearly 3 times greater likelihood of being EC. Conclusions and Implications: The ecSatter Inventory is a valid measure of EC and can be used for descriptive and outcome measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the potential of theater as part of an undergraduate community nutrition course in shaping students' attitudes, beliefs, and empathy toward individuals experiencing food insecurity and living in poverty. The benefits of arts-based curricula has been well-documented in other health and social service disciplines. Theater, poetry, and art can broaden students' understanding of complex social problems, foster engagement, and promote empathy. These skills and capabilities are important for nutrition educators. However, few studies have investigated the potential role of arts-based education in nutrition/dietetics coursework, and to our knowledge, no studies have been published to-date on the use of theater. Students (n = 11) enrolled in an undergraduate community nutrition course at a small university in New England. All were majoring in either nutrition or public health. Students attended a theatrical performance that addressed everyday experiences of families living in poverty and confronted a wide range of social issues connected to food insecurity. After the performance, students were given a reflection paper assignment. The evaluation was a mixed methods design with both qualitative and quantitative components. Reflection papers were analyzed for themes. Perceptions on individuals in poverty (pre/post) was assessed by the validated Undergraduate Perceptions of Poverty Tracking Survey (UPPTS) and analyzed using paired t-tests. After attending the performance, perceptions on those living in poverty improved. Common themes discussed in reflection papers revealed greater awareness of stressors and barriers to accessing resources. Lower mean survey score on Likert-scale of 1-5 indicated greater overall empathy, and likelihood of viewing the underlying causes of poverty related to lack of resources and opportunity (2.2 + 0.4 vs 1.9 + 0.4), P <.05. Theater can provide nutrition students with new insights and perspectives that can potentially broaden their understanding of complex social and environmental factors that influence nutrition-related behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to review current approaches and issues in the field of program evaluation that apply to the effort of improving the evaluation of Food Stamp Nutrition Education (FSNE). As nutrition educators respond to increasing demands for accountability and measuring results, there are challenges to consider, as well as opportunities to capture. This paper includes a focus on the internal and external functions of evaluation, with attention given to evaluation's internal use and value in improving practice. A list of 10 building blocks is offered as essential for planning useful and credible evaluation of FSNE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents several abstracts of the papers related to nutrition education and weight problems that were discussed in the conference "Shaping a Healthy Future III: A Rocky Mountain Conference on Weight Realities." One of the papers "Nutrition Education to Facilitate Prevention and Control of Diabetes in the Hispanic Population," by Viviana Abuchar made a point that diabetes is a serious and growing health issue in the U.S. population. It informed that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that currently about 17 million people or 6.2% of the population has diabetes. Another paper on "People at Work: 5A Day Tailgate Sessions," by Carolyn Benepe stated that work site nutrition education is an effective and practical way to reach audiences that can benefit from short, encouraging 5 A Day messages. The intent of this project was to promote fruit and vegetable consumption for men between the ages of 18 and 44, a group typically known to eat fewer servings of fruits and vegetables. One of the papers by the researcher, Katheryn S. Bark conducted a recess-before-lunch policy pilot study in 4 elementary schools from April 2002 to May 2003. The objective was to examine the results from the implementation of a recess-before lunch policy in 4 Montana elementary schools.

The article presents abstracts of research papers presented during Society for Nutrition Education 38th Annual Conference in Orlando, Florida, on July 23-27, 2005. According to the paper "Understanding Diabetes Self-Care Management Pathways in Low-Income Women With Type 2 Diabetes," type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that requires complex, lifelong, daily decision-making. This qualitative study was conducted to understand the process of diabetes management over time and was guided by Corbin and Strauss's Chronic Illness Trajectory Model. The paper "From "Unconcerned Healthies" to "At-Risk Uncertains": Segmenting Audiences for Nutrition Education to Prevent Obesity," describes obesity as taking center stage as one of the biggest threats to the health and welfare of adults and children alike, not only in the United States but also on a global scale. Consequently, the energy and resources of the public health community are being focused on the issue of obesity prevention and control. In order to plan effective programs and interventions, more information about specific target audience segments is needed.

This article presents abstracts of research papers submitted at the Society for Nutrition Education 37th Annual Conference entitled "Inviting Everyone to the Table" in Salt Lake City, Utah on July 17-21, 2004. "Promoting Health Eating and Physical Activity Behaviors Among Incoming College Freshmen," discusses diet and physical patterns. The paper "Folic Acid Now: Results of a Nine-Month Intervention to Increase Awareness and Knowledge of Folic Acid Among College-Age Women (Phase II)," discusses the ability of folic acid to prevent birth defects. The paper "Learning to Teach, Teaching to Learn," enhances didactic objectives in a nutrition curriculum while serving the community.

Home visitation programs offer a unique opportunity to implement a novel digital early childhood obesity prevention program. Evaluate usability of a digital infant feeding nutrition education module with key stakeholders (N=21) of a home visiting program in Florida. Home visitors (n=11) and enrolled mothers (n=10) of a home visiting program in Florida participated in a one-time, 45-minute qualitative interview via Zoom with a trained researcher using a semi-structured script based on constructs from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Social Cognitive Theory (SCT). Participants also completed a modified version of the mHealth App Usability Questionnaire (MAUQ). Interviews were audio-recorded, deidentified, transcribed verbatim and coded by two trained researchers using an inductive thematic analysis approach based on TAM and SCT constructs to develop themes. MAUQ subscales were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Most participants noted that they liked the digital format, and specifically mentioned the visual or interactive components, convenience and accessibility of the information, and general preference for digital information over paper handouts. Home visitors were interested in content related to food allergies and readiness for solid foods, whereas mothers were interested in all of the infant feeding topics. Nonetheless, the majority (90%) reported that they would be very likely to use information in the learning modules as part of home visits. Usability of the module was high across all three MAUQ subscales (mean ratings out of 7±SD: ease of use = 6.88±0.2, interface and satisfaction = 6.90±0.4, usefulness = 6.78±0.1). Limited access to technology by parents, compatibility of the module with various phone types, and necessity of keeping information updated were mentioned by home visitors as limitations that may impact usability. The results revealed that a digital nutrition education module to prevent early childhood obesity was deemed usable by both staff and parents of a home visiting program. Future research is needed to determine impact on parental feeding behaviors and child health outcomes. University of Florida Mowery Innovative Research Fund [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study explored perceived barriers to redemption of fresh produce prescriptions among caregivers of pediatric patients who participated in a fruit and vegetable prescription program (FVPP) in Flint, Michigan. The pediatric FVPP was grounded in Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), which suggests that behavior is explained by a three-stage, dynamic model between personal factors, environmental factors, and behavior. With self-efficacy central to behavior change, pediatrician issuance of a prescription for fruits and vegetables to every child at each office visit was designed to support fresh food access as well as self-efficacy to consume healthy foods. Caregivers of pediatric patients (0-18 years) across three large pediatric clinics in Flint, Michigan that offered the identical FVPP. The FVPP provided one $15 prescription to pediatric patients at each office visit. Prescriptions (valid for 90 days) were ordered via electronic medical records, printed on prescription paper, and redeemable for fresh produce at a downtown farmers' market or local mobile market/food hub. The program was introduced to the first pediatric clinic, co-located with a farmers' market, in 2016. It was expanded to two additional clinics in 2018 and 2021. Barriers to prescription redemption were assessed through one qualitative question included in a caregiver survey that was designed to examine program effectiveness. Answers were then coded into discrete categories and analyzed. A total of 496 caregivers completed surveys. Of those, 379 caregivers (76%) answered the question related to barriers to redemption. Although 265 reported no challenges with prescription redemption, 114 caregivers identified at least one barrier. Primary barriers across three clinics were lost, forgotten, or expired prescriptions (25%), transportation to or distance from farmers' market (24%), and lack of time (23%). Differences in responses based on pediatric clinic location were also noted. Results indicated several consistent barriers to prescription redemption that could be addressed to improve program utilization among participating families. NIH [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To estimate the parallel forms reliability of the paper and pencil and World Wide Web versions of the 1998 Block Health Habits and History Questionnaire (HHHQ) and to examine the feasibility of older women using the Web version. Design: Within a 2-week period, participants completed both the paper and pencil and Web versions of the HHHQ and pre- and postsurveys about their comfort level and experience in using the computer. Subjects: A convenience sample of 31 white women, aged 58.2 ± 6.3 years, from a rural location were recruited via direct mail, public service announcements, and public posters. Variables Measured: The parallel forms reliability of the HHHQ administered in two different ways and the perceptions of the women on their computer use were measured. Analysis: Dietary data were analyzed using Pearson correlations and paired t tests. Alpha significance level was set at P ≤ .05. Results: The Web HHHQ had adequate reliability when compared with the paper and pencil version; paired sample correlations approximated acceptable coefficients (r > .70), with only vitamin C (r = .54) and iron (r = .65) falling below the acceptable standard. Eleven women indicated initial discomfort with the computer, but after the study, only three said they were uncomfortable completing the on-line survey. Implications: Internet dietary assessment tools could be a feasible assessment tool for older women to self-administer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to qualitatively evaluate student learnings from an online community food security (CFS) service-learning (SL) course where students self-selected a community partner for an in-person service experience. Service-learning is an effective pedagogy for engaging students with course material in the community. The delivery method of course material and service components can vary, spanning from fully in-person to fully online. The process of community partner identification for SL courses varies, and there are few studies about the impact of community partner self-selection in an online SL course. Students enrolled in an online CFS course with an in-person SL experience The online curriculum focused on the complexity of CFS and multidisciplinary approaches to CFS programming. Students chose a community partner engaged in CFS efforts and completed 15 hours of in-person service with the partner. They completed a series of assignments related to the SL experience, including a post-experience critical reflection paper. The research team engaged in thematic analysis of 60 student critical reflection papers. Two researchers open coded papers to facilitate codebook development. They independently coded the papers, using the codebook, and came to consensus. Through weekly discussion, the research team determined dominant emergent themes. Four themes emerged from the data: (1) "food insecurity doesn't have a single face," (2) understanding of the complexities and nuances of food insecurity, (3) use of emotion to describe and discuss the service component of the SL experience, and (4) expression of appreciation and respect for organizations working to address food insecurity. Ultimately, students developed an understanding of the complexity of CFS while developing civic mindedness and professional skills, such as empathy. This framework facilitates student understanding of the complexity of course content and provides an effective and scalable model for instructors seeking to build students' professional skills and civic mindedness. None. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To examine the impact of a community-engaged assignment on graduate student learning in the nutritional sciences. Design Convergent mixed-methods design with parallel data collection and terminal merging of data. Data were composed of grant proposals, reflection papers, and informal course evaluations from 2 semesters of the same course. Fall students wrote proposals on behalf of a community partner whereas spring students wrote fictitious grants to improve nutrition on their campus. Setting A large public university in northeastern US. Participants Students enrolled in the fall (n = 19) or spring (n = 14) semester of the same graduate nutrition course. Phenomenon of Interest Grant quality, student engagement, and collaboration with peers. Analysis Quantitative rubric-based rating of grant proposals, emergent and thematic qualitative coding of open-ended responses, and independent-samples t test of Likert-scale questions. Data were compared between semesters and reported in a contiguous narrative approach. Results Students across semesters experienced academic and personal gains from the assignment. Comparatively, fall students expressed enhanced engagement, improved group dynamics, more frequent application of the assignment to their lives, and a better aggregate grant score. Conclusions and Implications Both experiential and community-engaged coursework can enhance learning outcomes at the graduate level and prepare students for careers in nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Nutrition Literacy Assessment Instrument (NLit) is a tool designed to assess print literacy and numeracy within nutrition contexts and the capability to apply nutrition knowledge and skills. In 2015-2017, NLit was culturally and linguistically adapted to Portuguese (Brazil). The sample consisted of 30 subjects with at least one chronic diseases with an average age of 62 years. The content validity (S-CVI 0.85), convergent validity (r = 0.66, P < 0.01) and internal consistency (KR-20 = 0.86) of the NLit-Br were confirmed. However, amid the SARS-COVID-19 pandemic, there is a need to have the instrument available remotely. To test the reliability of the NLit-Br online version in an adult population. Cross-sectional study was carried out in March 2020. With a non-probabilistic convenience sample considered statistically sufficient (ICC > 0.06).The sample was selected based on researchers access to the population and according to statistical criteria validated in other studies. That way, 30 completed questionnaires were analyzed. The convenient sample consisted of 21 workers from 3 banking agencies of a financial institution in Brasilia, DF, Brazil. Nutrition literacy was measured by the NLitBr, comprised of five subscales: Nutrition & Health, Energy Sources in Food, Food Label & Numeracy, Food Groups, and Consumer Skills. Participants were randomly divided into 2 groups. Both groups completed the online and paper version of the NLit-Br on the same day, with a minimum of 2 hours apart. Reliability was measured by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The population studied was predominantly male (57.1%), with graduate or postgraduate (97.4%) and household income above 7 minimum wages, U$ 1516,09 (76,2%). The NLit-Br demonstrated substantial reliability (ICC > 0.75) and test-retest reliability. The mean scores with the standard deviation of the NLit-Br for the online (55.62 ± 4.09 points) and printed (54.00 ± 4.54 points) versions were similar. The NLit-Br online is a reliable tool for remotely measuring nutrition literacy in adults. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social participation, including community-based social activities (CBSA), improves self-rated health (SRH) among older adults, which contributes to healthy aging. Social support (SS) and self-efficacy (SE), which facilitate healthy behavior in community settings according to Social Cognitive Theory, were associated with the frequency of attending social activities. However, the association between SS, SE, and the number of CBSAs in which a participant was engaged is not well-known. This cross-sectional study examined the relationship between the number of engaged CBSAs, SS and SE for community-based social participation, and SRH among community-dwelling older adults. The data used in this study was collected at community events in a suburb area of Tokyo in Japan in 2018. Among 334 participants, 220 people answered paper-based anonymous questionnaires, and 174 participants aged ≥65 years completed the questionnaires used in this study. Responses to 4 questionnaires regarding engaged CBSAs, SS, SE, and SRH were used in this study. The engaged CBSA number was calculated by summing the number of CBSAs chosen from 9 representative CBSA options and the CBSA number listed on an open-ended question asking the other engaged CBSAs. Structural equation modeling examined relationships among SRH (endogenous variable) and the engaged CBSA number, SS, and SE (exogenous variables), with covariates identified by preliminary analyses. The median number of engaged CBSAs was 3 (25 and 75 percentiles: 2, 5). SRH was associated with the engaged CBSA number (β = 0.037, P = 0.049). The engaged CBSA number was related to both SS (β = 0.373, P = <0.001) and SE (β = 0.081, P = 0.024), and the effect of SS was stronger than SE. Enlarging SS for participating in CBSA rather than SE could encourage older adults to participate in diverse CBSAs, which could improve their SRH. None [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest exists to standardize and improve data collection and coding in Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) classes by switching from a paper-and-pencil 24-hour recall to the Automated Self-Administered 24-hour Recall (ASA24); however, it is important to address the feasibility of putting this into practice. To do an initial pilot test to compare the use of ASA24 with paper-and-pencil recalls with EFNEP participants. Ten EFNEP paraprofessional educators were recruited from three states and trained to use ASA24. Participants were randomized at the class level to complete either ASA24 or a paper-and-pencil recall at program entry and the alternate method at exit. Participants (n = 37 entry, n = 30 exit) and paraprofessionals completed questionnaires about usability, confidence, preference, and perceived accuracy at entry and exit. Seven paraprofessionals participated in online focus groups or qualitative interviews. Questions about usability, confidence, and perceived accuracy were scored on a Likert scale from strongly disagree (1) to strongly agree (5); scores were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative interviews and focus groups were transcribed, and two researchers coded and developed themes using inductive content analysis. Average scores for usability, confidence, and perceived accuracy were very similar for ASA24 and the paper-and-pencil recall. When asked which method they preferred, both the participants and paraprofessionals were evenly split. In the qualitative interviews, almost all of the paraprofessionals felt that ASA24 would result in more accurate recalls. The major barriers mentioned were lack of computer literacy of some participants and problems with internet connectivity. ASA24 may be comparable to the paper-and-pencil recall in usability, confidence, perceived accuracy, and preference for both EFNEP participants and paraprofessionals. Qualitative analysis indicates that ASA24 may work better with participants who are computer literate, and may yield more accurate results. USDA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low program enrollment and participation is an issue across many produce prescription programs aiming to improve access to fruits and vegetables. The Keiki (child) produce prescription (KPRx) study provides Waianae Coast Comprehensive Health Center (WCCHC) patients with vouchers to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. The KPRx feasibility study found the program to be popular and desired, but enrollment and retention to be quite low. The objective of this research is to quantify the impact of integrated and electronic referral processing on produce prescription program enrollment and participation. This quasi-experimental study compares enrollment and participation among KPRx participants by referral mechanism. Study participants were pediatric patients of the WCCHC. In the feasibility study a paper prescription was provided with instructions to visit the farmers market to enroll and the clinic called to remind patients. In the pilot study, a unique referral mechanism was developed by the WCCHC electronic medical record (EMR) team, which allowed pediatricians to screen patients for eligibility and click a button to refer the patient to the KPRx study. KPRx staff were alerted of the referral via the EMR and subsequently contacted participants to enroll at the farmers market. Enrollment and participation at 3 months are the primary study outcomes. Enrollment, quantified as the number of enrolled participants in comparison to the number referred, will be compared between the two methods. Program participation, quantified as the number of active program participants at three months from enrollment, will also be compared. Independent t-tests will be used to test for significance. There were significant improvements in enrollment and participation with the EMR innovations (manual referrals=193, 49.7% enrollment, 23.8% participation vs EMR referrals = 121, 90.9% enrollment, and 54.5% participation) P < 0.05. EMR innovations can be leveraged to enhance enrollment and participation in fruit and vegetable prescription and other healthy food incentive programs. NIH, Hawaii Medical Services Association Foundation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

School-based food pantries (SBFP) are 1 way to address food insecurity among low-income families with children by offering nutritious food at a known, trusted, and easily accessible location. Although implementation has increased, there is still limited data on the client acceptability of SBFP compared to other school-based food program models, especially among rural schools. To compare client acceptability, satisfaction, and preference between pilot SBFP and Sack Pack (SP) programs across 3 rural elementary schools in Southeast, Tennessee. In this cross-sectional study, a convenience sample (n = 25) of adult caregivers of children participating in SBFP were recruited to complete a self-administered survey, either on paper or through an online survey software (Question Pro). Surveys, based on an existing tool developed for a Feeding America school-based food pantry evaluation, were adapted, reviewed, and revised with the partnering food bank. The 33-item survey explored client satisfaction with variety, quality, quantity, and nutritional value of food offerings using Likert-type scales, client program perceptions using open-text responses, and demographics. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and means, were calculated to compare client acceptability between SBFP and SP programs. A majority of participants were White (100%), non-Hispanic (96%) females (88%), who reported either excellent (40%) or very good (16%) self-perceived knowledge of food preparation skills. Participant feedback and satisfaction were uniformly positive for both programs; however, a majority preferred the food variety (68%), quality (68%), quantity (84%), nutritional value (76%), and convenience (64%) of the SBFP compared to the SP program. Participants reported feeding more household members with SBFP (mean = 3.9 ± 0.91) than the SP program (mean = 3.0 ± 1.02). Clients indicated acceptability of, satisfaction with, and preference for the SBFP. These findings support the continuation and expansion of SBFP at new sites to address food insecurity among low-income families with children. University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To identify how qualitative research has contributed to understanding the ways people in developed countries interpret healthy eating. Design: Bibliographic database searches identified reports of qualitative, empirical studies published in English, peer-reviewed journals since 1995. Data Analysis: Authors coded, discussed, recoded, and analyzed papers reporting qualitative research studies related to participants' interpretations of healthy eating. Results: Studies emphasized a social constructionist approach, and most used focus groups and/or individual, in-depth interviews to collect data. Study participants explained healthy eating in terms of food, food components, food production methods, physical outcomes, psychosocial outcomes, standards, personal goals, and as requiring restriction. Researchers described meanings as specific to life stages and different life experiences, such as parenting and disease onset. Identity (self-concept), social settings, resources, food availability, and conflicting considerations were themes in participants' explanations for not eating according to their ideals for healthy eating. Implications: People interpret healthy eating in complex and diverse ways that reflect their personal, social, and cultural experiences, as well as their environments. Their meanings include but are broader than the food composition and health outcomes considered by scientists. The rich descriptions and concepts generated by qualitative research can help practitioners and researchers think beyond their own experiences and be open to audience members' perspectives as they seek to promote healthy ways of eating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents abstracts of several papers, presented at the 2011 Annual Conference Proceedings of the Society for Nutrition Education (SNE) which include multistrategy nutrition education intervention, use of college bulletin boars for nutrition education, and methodology for food tasting in teenagers.

The article presents abstracts of several papers, presented at the 2011 Annual Conference Proceedings of the Society for Nutrition Education (SNE) which include impact of descriptive names of vegetables on increasing lunchroom sales, policy for preventing obesity in children, and food web sites.

It is the position of the American Dietetic Association (ADA), School Nutrition Association (SNA), and Society for Nutrition Education (SNE) that comprehensive, integrated nutrition services in schools, kindergarten through grade 12, are an essential component of coordinated school health programs and will improve the nutritional status, health, and academic performance of our nation's children. Local school wellness policies may strengthen comprehensive nutrition services by encouraging multidisciplinary wellness teams, composed of school and community members, to work together in identifying local school needs, developing feasible strategies to address priority areas, and integrating comprehensive nutrition services with a coordinated school health program. This joint position paper affirms schools as an important partner in health promotion. To maximize the impact of school weliness policies on strengthening comprehensive, integrated nutrition services in schools nationwide, ADA, SNA, and SNE recommend specific strategies in the following key areas: nutrition education and promotion, food and nutrition programs available on the school campus, school-home-community partnerships, and nutrition-related health services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper presents the reliability and validity of a "competing food choice" construct designed to assess whether factors related to consumption of less-healthful food were perceived to be barriers to fruit and vegetable consumption in college freshmen. Design: Cross-sectional, self-administered survey. Setting: An urban public college with a large, diverse student population. Participants: A convenience sample of 408 college freshmen. Variables Measured: A "competing food choice" construct and fruit and vegetable intake. Analyses: Factor analysis, Cronbach α, and correlation coefficients were used to determine the reliability and validity of the construct. Results: Three factors were produced from the factor analysis of the 11-item competing food choice construct: "competitive food" barriers (Cronbach α = 0.73), fruit and vegetable-related "time" barriers (Cronbach α = 0.67), and "quality" barriers (Cronbach α = 0.64). Construct validity assessments revealed significant inverse correlations between fruit and vegetable consumption and competitive food barriers (r = -0.15, p < .01 current and r = -0.25, P < .01 prior) and time barriers (r = -0.12, P < .05 current and r -0.10, P < .05 prior). Conclusions and Implications: This "competing food choice" construct demonstrated satisfactory reliability and construct validity among college freshmen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This paper describes the design and findings of a pilot Mothers In Motion (P-MIM) program. Design: A randomized controlled trial that collected data via telephone interviews and finger stick at 3 time points: baseline and 2 and 8 months post-intervention. Setting: Three Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) sites in southern Michigan. Participants: One hundred and twenty nine overweight and obese African-American and white mothers, 18-34 years old. Intervention: The 10-week, theory-based, culturally sensitive intervention messages were delivered via a series of 5 chapters on a DVD and complemented by 5 peer support group teleconferences. Main Outcome Measures: Dietary fat, fruit, and vegetable intake; physical activity; stress; feelings; body weight; and blood glucose. Analysis: General linear mixed model was applied to assess treatment effects across 2 and 8 months postintervention. Results: No significant effect sizes were found in primary and secondary outcome variables at 2 and 8 months post-intervention. However, changes in body weight and blood glucose showed apparent trends consistent with the study's hypotheses. Conclusions and Implications: The P-MIM showed promise for preventing weight gain in low-income overweight and obese women. However, a larger experimental trial is warranted to determine the effectiveness of this intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: As part of a national effort to prevent and control obesity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) Nutrition and Physical Activity Program to Prevent Obesity and Other Chronic Diseases (NPAO) provides funding to states to improve access to healthful food and increase opportunities for physical activity. The CDC also provides funding to states to build Coordinated School Health (CSH) programs across agencies and within schools to help reduce chronic disease risk factors. This paper investigates the possible role of these programs in state policy change. Methods: Descriptive study of state legislation targeting obesity prevention passed in 2005. Units of analysis were 135 pieces of obesity-related state legislation identified within 4 legislative databases. Legislation was coded into programmatic setting and obesity-prevention strategy categories. Results: On average, states receiving NPAO or CSH program funding passed twice as many bills as states not yet funded. Conclusions and Implications: The statewide obesity prevention and school health programs may have contributed to states enacting more obesity-related legislation. Further research into the process by which state programs influence the enactment and effective implementation of policies could help build the evidence base for policy changes that help prevent obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]