A review by Regan Bailey, Ph.D., Patrick Stover, Ph.D., and their team highlights the urgent need for a unified evaluation framework for U.S. nutrition education programs linked to food assistance, including SNAP-Ed, WIC and EFNEP.

These programs play a vital role in improving diet quality and reducing chronic disease among low-income populations. However, inconsistent evaluation methods across states limit the ability to measure national impact.

Researchers propose adopting the RE-AIM framework across all programs, leveraging the expertise of land-grant universities and cooperative extension services, and encouraging continuous updates to USDA guidelines based on rigorous data.

A standardized approach will enhance program effectiveness, support policy innovation and ultimately promote nutrition security while reducing healthcare costs.