Under SNAP program, higher spending on less healthy foods

Описание: One in seven Americans receives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. SNAP is a federal program designed to reduce food insecurity and help families obtain nutritious foods. Harvard Chan researchers compared transactions made with and without SNAP benefits at a large regional supermarket chain. They found that purchases made with and without SNAP were not consistent with the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which encourage healthier eating However, SNAP purchases included higher percentages of less healthy foods than non-SNAP purchases. SNAP purchases included higher spending on less healthful food categories -- sugar-sweetened beverages, red meat, and convenience foods such as boxed macaroni and cheese compared with non-SNAP purchases. Fruits and vegetables made up a lower percentage of SNAP purchases compared to non-SNAP transactions Eric Rimm, professor of epidemiology and nutrition.