The Impact of Family Factors and Household Food Insecurity on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Low-Income Children

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of the study was to examine the relationships among household food insecurity, family functioning, parental stress, and fruit and vegetable consumption in low-income children. Methods: Parents of children from ages 5-10 years were recruited from local farmers’ markets implementing a dollar-for-dollar match for individuals using their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Parents (n = 143) completed questionnaires pertaining to stress, family functioning, household food insecurity, and child fruit and vegetable consumption. Participants also completed a brief demographic questionnaire. Results: Family functioning, household food insecurity, and parental stress were not significantly associated with fruit and vegetable consumption in low-income children. Exploratory analyses examined household food insecurity as a moderator between parental stress and fruit and vegetable consumption; findings were not significant. Conclusions: Family factors and household food insecurity were not significantly related to fruit and vegetable consumption in low-income children in the current study. As farmers’ markets with match programs for SNAP users continue to expand across the United States, researchers may consider to continue to expand studies in this area.