The Effect on Dietary Quality of Participation in the Food Stamp and WIC Programs

by Parke E. Wilde, Paul E. McNamara, and Christine K. Ranney

Participants in the Food Stamp Program have higher intake of meats, added sugars, and total fats, according to a regression analysis. However, food stamp use does not significantly change intake of fruits, vegetables, grains, or dairy products. Participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) have significantly lower intake of added sugars, which may reflect the substitution of WIC-supplied juices and cereals in place of higher sugar soft drinks and cereals. These findings come from a study of low-income Americans using the Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals.

Keywords: Nutrition assistance programs, food intake, dietary quality, Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII)

In this publication...

• Entire Report
• Front Matter
• Introduction
• Background on the FSP and WIC
• Research on Nutrition Programs and Dietary Quality
• Data and Methods
• Effects of Age, Income, and Program Participation on Dietary Quality
• Implications for Nutrition Assistance Programs
• References
• Appendix