Comparing two methods of providing fruits and vegetables to improve food security

NutriConnect: Enhancing Health and Food Security Through Sustainable Solutions and Partnerships

This study is testing whether giving people credits for fruits and vegetables or delivering produce boxes helps those struggling with food insecurity eat healthier and improve their overall diet.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 240 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 99 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Washington University School of Medicine (other)
• Locations: 1 site (Saint Louis, Missouri)
• Trial ID: NCT06263751 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of two approaches to a produce prescription program aimed at increasing fruit and vegetable intake among patients facing food insecurity and diet-related diseases. Participants will receive either credits to a rewards account or a delivery of produce boxes, with the goal of assessing which method better enhances food security and dietary habits. The study also explores implementation outcomes such as reach, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, utilizing a collaborative approach with key partners to ensure scalability. By addressing the gaps in existing food is medicine programs, this research aims to provide valuable insights into effective strategies for socioeconomically disadvantaged patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who have been discharged from Barnes Jewish Hospital and are experiencing food or financial insecurity along with elevated cardiovascular risk.

Not a fit: Patients who are not stable at home, pregnant, or unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve dietary habits and food security for low-income patients with diet-related health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies on produce prescription programs have shown positive outcomes in increasing fruit and vegetable consumption and improving food security, indicating that this approach has potential based on existing evidence.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adults (\>= 18 years)
2. Received care at either medical floors or observation unit at the Bares Jewish Hospital (BJH), and discharged to home.
3. Being screened positive for food or financial insecurity.
4. Have elevated cardiovascular risk, i.e., self-reported diabetes, hypertension, hyperglycemia, or calculated BMI meeting obesity.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Does not have competence to provide informed consent.
2. Is under suicide watch.
3. Is in police custody.
4. In hospice or palliative care.
5. Not have a stable home.
6. Is pregnant.

Where this trial is running

Saint Louis, Missouri

• Barnes Jewish Hospital — Saint Louis, Missouri, United States (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jing Li, MD, DrPH, MS — Washington University School of Medicine
• Study coordinator: Jing Li, MD, DrPH, MS

Conditions: Food Insecurity