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Given the coexistence of hunger and obesity in the United States, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) can play a critical role in addressing these public health problems. In April 2012, 46.2 million people were enrolled in SNAP, of whom nearly 50 percent are children. The reauthorization of the SNAP program presents an opportunity to explore strategies to improve the nutritional status of beneficiaries. This report summarizes an analysis that examined the feasibility of enhancing nutritional policies in SNAP and describes 10 key recommendations identified by the project team that, taken together, could help improve the nutritional health and prevent obesity among SNAP recipients.
Published: July 2012
ID #: CAS007
Publisher: Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress, Health and Medicine Program
Authors: Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress, Health and Medicine Program
Age Groups: Adolescents (grades 9 to 12), Adults and Families, Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)
Keywords: Corner store, Farmers' markets, Food insecurity, Food outlet, Fruits and vegetables, Grocery store, Nutrition standards, Point-of-decision prompts, Sugar-sweetened beverages, Supermarket, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Focus Areas: Food Access, Food Marketing, Nutrition Policy & Programs, Pricing & Economics
Race/Ethnicity: Multi-racial/ethnic
State: National
Resource Type: Report
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