Can nutrition education change behavior for multiple racial/ethnic groups?

Purpose: To share the key features of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) which has achieved remarkable behavior change related to dietary quality, physical activity, food resource management and food safety for 36 years. Background: A strong research base provides the foundation for, and maintains the quality and integrity of the experiential education program. Using many educational theories and implementation designs, including Social Cognitive Theory, Stages of Change, Facilitated Discussion and experiential learning within the context of an integrated curriculum and reinforced messages have been instrumental in its success. Key Points: This program, which is funded at a level of approx. $60 million/year, has reached millions of low income youth and adults thru peer educators and volunteers. The multi-lesson series allows for the introduction of key skills, with opportunities to practice them in the class setting and at home. Subsequent lessons reinforce the learning, and add new concepts. An evaluation component is integral to the program, providing feedback to 9 clients and measuring impact, thus assuring accountability and continued improvements over time. As a result, adult graduates achieve the following impacts: 84% improve food resource, 88% improve nutrition practices, 67% improve food safety and 93 % improve diet quality. Conclusion: This program can be adapted for use in other countries. Curricula already exist in multiple languages, adapted for the food culture of the participants. Short video clips will illustrate the kept components of the delivery and accomplishments of participants.