Child Consumption of Whole Fruit and Fruit Juice Following Six Months of Exposure to a Pediatric Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program

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The study took place in Flint, Michigan, where food insecurity and limited access to fresh produce are major concerns. The FVPP provided a $15 fruit and vegetable prescription per child at every clinic visit, redeemable at a farmers’ market and a local mobile market. This approach aimed to improve fresh produce accessibility in a low-income, underserved community.

After six months of exposure to the FVPP, participating children reported a significant increase in whole fruit consumption (p = 0.03). Specifically, 44% increased intake by at least ¼ cup per day, and 30% increased by at least ½ cup per day. However, total fruit intake (including fruit juice) did not change significantly.

The findings suggest that pediatric FVPPs may be an effective intervention to increase whole fruit intake among children, particularly in communities facing economic and food access challenges. Unlike other FVPPs designed for disease management in adults, this program focused on preventative nutrition strategies for children, highlighting the role of early dietary interventions in promoting long-term health.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

This study evaluated the impact of pediatric fruit and vegetable prescription program (FVPP) on children's consumption of whole fruit and fruit juice. The pediatric FVPPs significantly improved whole fruit consumption in children, while not increasing fruit juice intake.(p = 0.03) after six-month. The results support scaling FVPPs as a strategy to enhance child nutrition and food security, particularly in low-income and food-insecure communities.