The impact of nutrition education on food insecurity among low-income participants in EFNEP

The impact of nutrition education on food security status was assessed in a multiethnic, low-income population using a pretest-posttest comparison group design. Data were collected over 3 years from participants (N = 16,146) in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in New York State who either graduated or terminated involvement prior to graduation. Both groups had a significant decrease in food insecurity score (p &@_3C .05) from pre-to post education. The difference between the graduated and terminated groups approached statistical significance using a t-test comparison (p = .055). A multiple regression analysis indicated that food insecurity score decreased significantly more in graduates (p &@_3C .001). A dose response relationship was seen between the number of lessons received and decreases in food insecurity. Programs that educate low-income families in food selection and resource management skills can decrease the risk of food insecurity, although effects vary by socio demographic characteristics of participants and program delivery methods.