Characteristics of the People and Communities Served by GusNIP Produce Prescriptions: United States, 2020-2024

Top Things to Know

GusNIP programs successfully reach individuals with food insecurity and chronic disease risk, reinforcing the role of food as a clinical intervention to address social determinants of health.

With participants consuming less than half the recommended daily fruits and vegetables, produce prescriptions can serve as a powerful tool to improve diet quality and reduce chronic disease burden.

Young adults and men need targeted outreach to ensure that FIM interventions achieve broad health benefits for all.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

The study analyzed baseline data from 21,635 participants enrolled in GusNIP produce prescription programs across the U.S. between 2020 and 2024. These programs aim to increase fruit and vegetable intake and reduce food insecurity among low-income individuals at risk for diet-related chronic diseases. Findings show that participants consumed an average of 2.39 cups of fruits and vegetables per day and 67.2% reported food insecurity. Most participants were women (77%), aged 45–65 years (43%), and from the Southern and Western regions. Regional differences in intake were statistically significant but small, with the Northeast having slightly higher consumption. Overall, GusNIP programs are reaching their intended audience though gaps remain in engaging younger adults and men.