Systematic review of fruit and vegetable voucher interventions for pregnant women and families with young children

Top Things to Know

F&V voucher schemes help low-income families access healthier foods, which can serve as preventive tools to improve maternal and child health outcomes through better nutrition.

Tailoring interventions to community needs and reducing stigma are essential for maximizing health benefits.

Even when dietary changes are modest, recipients report reduced financial pressure and improved mental wellbeing.

Summary of Conclusion/Findings

This systematic review examined the impact of fruit and vegetable (F&V) voucher schemes on diet quality, food purchasing, and health outcomes among low-income pregnant women and families with children under five in the UK and USA. While quantitative findings were mixed and confidence in the evidence was low, several studies showed modest increases in F&V consumption and nutrient intake. Qualitative data were more consistent, revealing that vouchers were used to subsidize existing food purchases, increase variety and quantity of F&V, and serve as a nutritional safety net during financial hardship. Barriers to effectiveness included low voucher value, limited awareness, stigma, and challenges with eligibility and redemption. Some schemes, like Rose Vouchers and EatSF, were associated with improved mental wellbeing and reduced financial stress. The review highlights the need for higher-quality research and better-designed interventions to fully understand and optimize the impact of F&V vouchers.