Financial incentives and purchase restrictions in a food benefit program affect the types of foods and beverages purchased: results from a randomized trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

This research evaluated the effects of financial incentives and purchase restrictions on food purchasing in a food benefit program for low income people.

Methods

Participants (n=279) were randomized to groups: 1) Incentive- 30% financial incentive for fruits and vegetables purchased with food benefits; 2) Restriction- no purchase of sugar-sweetened beverages, sweet baked goods, or candies with food benefits; 3) Incentive plus Restriction; or 4) Control- no incentive or restrictions. Participants received a study-specific debit card where funds were added monthly for 12-weeks. Food purchase receipts were collected over 16 weeks. Total dollars spent on grocery purchases and by targeted food categories were computed from receipts. Group differences were examined usin

SUBMITTER: French SA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5602848 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature