The Experts below are selected from a list of 360 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform

Ingeborg A. Brouwer - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • the role of Food parcel use on dietary intake perception of dutch Food Bank recipients a focus group study
    Public Health Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Mary Nicolaou, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Objective: To gain insight in Dutch Food Bank recipients’ perception on the content of the Food parcels, their dietary intake and how the parcels contribute to their overall dietary intake. Design: Eleven semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted. Focus group topics were based on Andersons Food insecurity definition: the lack of availability of nutritionally adequate Foods and the assured ability to acquire Foods in socially acceptable ways. Data were coded and analysed with Atlas.ti 7.0 software, using the framework approach. Setting: Seven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands. Participants: A total of 44 Dutch Food Bank recipients. Results: Food Bank recipients were not always satisfied with the amount, quality, variation and type of Foods in the Food parcel. For the participants who could afford to, supplementing the Food parcel was reported as main reason for buying Foods, and price was the most important aspect in selecting these Foods. Participants were not satisfied with their dietary intake; they mainly reported not having enough to eat. The content of the Food parcel importantly influenced participants’ overall dietary intake. Finally, participants reported struggling with their feelings of dissatisfaction, while also being grateful for the Foods they receive. Conclusions: This study suggests that, despite their best efforts, Food Banks are not meeting Food Bank recipients’ needs. Our results provide valuable directions for improving the content of the Food parcels by increasing the quantity, quality and variation in the Foods supplied. Whether this also improves the dietary intake of recipients needs to be determined.

  • improving the dietary quality of Food parcels leads to improved dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients effects of a randomized controlled trial
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. The aim of our study was to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. This randomized cross-over controlled trial (Trial ID: ISRCTN40554133) with four intervention conditions [(1) Control (standard Food parcel), (2) snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods), (3) FV+ (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), (4) snacks– + FV+ (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included 163 Food Bank recipients, from three Food Banks. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-h recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was daily fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were daily dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients. Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model, showed a higher mean daily fruit intake in participants in the FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (delta (δ): 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean daily fruit and vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetables δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetables δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g). This study shows that improving the dietary quality of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this information we can further develop effective strategies that can be easily applied by Food Banks, to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • effect of improving dietary quality of Food parcels on dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients a randomized controlled trial
    Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Introduction:Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients.Materials and methods:This randomized cross-over controlled trial with four intervention conditions [1) Control (standard Food parcel), 2) Snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods), 3) FV + (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), 4) Snacks– + FV (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included Food Bank recipients from three Food Banks. In total, 199 recipients were randomly allocated. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire and underwent anthropometric measurements. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-hour recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients.Results:Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model showed a higher mean fruit intake in participants in the FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (δ: 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean fruit and mean vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetable: δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit: δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetable δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g).Discussion:This study shows that improving the dietary content of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this we can further develop effective strategies to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • dutch Food Bank recipients have poorer dietary intakes than the general and low socioeconomic status dutch adult population
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2018
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, S C Dijkstra, A L M Dekkers, Marga C Ocke, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Food-assistance program users are a specific group of nutritional concern, as they are often Food insufficient and have poorer diet quality compared to non-Food-assistance program users. The aim of our study was to assess dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients (n = 167) and to compare this with dietary intake of a representative sample of the general population (Dutch National Food Consumption Survey (DNFCS-all): n = 1933), including a low-socioeconomic status (SES) sample (DNFCS-low SES: n = 312), using data from the DNFCS 2007–2010. In this cross-sectional study, 12 Food Banks throughout The Netherlands participated. Food Bank recipients’ characteristics were assessed with a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through three 24-h recalls. Habitual dietary intake (mean, percentiles, and 95% CI) was estimated for all samples. Differences between samples were determined by comparing the 95% CIs. Mean age of the study population (62.9% female) was 48.6 years (SD:10.1). Mean energy intake was 1986 (95% CI 1830–2089) kcal. The majority of the Dutch Food Bank recipients had lower intakes than dietary reference intakes for dietary fiber, fruit, vegetables, and fish (range 86.6–99.3%), and a higher intake for saturated fat [88.1% (95% CI 84.1–98.9)]. Furthermore, mean intakes of energy, fiber, fruit, and vegetables were significantly lower in Dutch Food Bank recipients than in the DNFCS-all and the DNFCS-low-SES [e.g., daily mean fruit intake (g) Food Bank recipients 62.8 (95% CI 45.5–76.5), DNFCS-all 105.8 (95% CI 105.4–117.9), and DNFCS-low-SES 85.1 (95% CI 78.7–100.2)]. Fish intake was significantly lower compared with the DNFCS-all, but not compared with the DNFCS-low-SES. Dutch Food Bank recipients, who largely rely on the content of Food parcels, are not able to meet the nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet, and their dietary intake is poorer than the general as well as the low-SES sample of the Dutch adult population. More research is needed on how to improve the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup, by, e.g., revising the content of the Food parcels, and to develop effective intervention activities.

  • Dutch Food Bank parcels do not meet nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet.
    The British journal of nutrition, 2016
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, S. Coosje Dijkstra, Marjolein Visser, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Nutritional intakes of Food Bank recipients and consequently their health status largely rely on the availability and quality of donated Food in provided Food parcels. In this cross-sectional study, the nutritional quality of ninety-six individual Food parcels was assessed and compared with the Dutch nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet. Furthermore, we assessed how Food Bank recipients use the contents of the Food parcel. Therefore, 251 Dutch Food Bank recipients from eleven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands filled out a general questionnaire. The provided amounts of energy (19 849 (sd 162 615) kJ (4744 (sd 38 866) kcal)), protein (14·6 energy percentages (en%)) and SFA (12·9 en%) in a single-person Food parcel for one single day were higher than the nutritional guidelines, whereas the provided amounts of fruits (97 (sd 1441) g) and fish (23 (sd 640) g) were lower. The number of days for which macronutrients, fruits, vegetables and fish were provided for a single-person Food parcel ranged from 1·2 (fruits) to 11·3 (protein) d. Of the participants, only 9·5 % bought fruits and 4·6 % bought fish to supplement the Food parcel, 39·4 % used all Foods provided and 75·7 % were (very) satisfied with the contents of the Food parcel. Our study shows that the nutritional content of Food parcels provided by Dutch Food Banks is not in line with the nutritional guidelines. Improving the quality of the parcels is likely to positively impact the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup.

Marjolein Visser - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • the role of Food parcel use on dietary intake perception of dutch Food Bank recipients a focus group study
    Public Health Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Mary Nicolaou, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Objective: To gain insight in Dutch Food Bank recipients’ perception on the content of the Food parcels, their dietary intake and how the parcels contribute to their overall dietary intake. Design: Eleven semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted. Focus group topics were based on Andersons Food insecurity definition: the lack of availability of nutritionally adequate Foods and the assured ability to acquire Foods in socially acceptable ways. Data were coded and analysed with Atlas.ti 7.0 software, using the framework approach. Setting: Seven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands. Participants: A total of 44 Dutch Food Bank recipients. Results: Food Bank recipients were not always satisfied with the amount, quality, variation and type of Foods in the Food parcel. For the participants who could afford to, supplementing the Food parcel was reported as main reason for buying Foods, and price was the most important aspect in selecting these Foods. Participants were not satisfied with their dietary intake; they mainly reported not having enough to eat. The content of the Food parcel importantly influenced participants’ overall dietary intake. Finally, participants reported struggling with their feelings of dissatisfaction, while also being grateful for the Foods they receive. Conclusions: This study suggests that, despite their best efforts, Food Banks are not meeting Food Bank recipients’ needs. Our results provide valuable directions for improving the content of the Food parcels by increasing the quantity, quality and variation in the Foods supplied. Whether this also improves the dietary intake of recipients needs to be determined.

  • improving the dietary quality of Food parcels leads to improved dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients effects of a randomized controlled trial
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. The aim of our study was to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. This randomized cross-over controlled trial (Trial ID: ISRCTN40554133) with four intervention conditions [(1) Control (standard Food parcel), (2) snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods), (3) FV+ (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), (4) snacks– + FV+ (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included 163 Food Bank recipients, from three Food Banks. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-h recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was daily fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were daily dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients. Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model, showed a higher mean daily fruit intake in participants in the FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (delta (δ): 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean daily fruit and vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetables δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetables δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g). This study shows that improving the dietary quality of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this information we can further develop effective strategies that can be easily applied by Food Banks, to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • effect of improving dietary quality of Food parcels on dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients a randomized controlled trial
    Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Introduction:Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients.Materials and methods:This randomized cross-over controlled trial with four intervention conditions [1) Control (standard Food parcel), 2) Snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods), 3) FV + (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), 4) Snacks– + FV (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included Food Bank recipients from three Food Banks. In total, 199 recipients were randomly allocated. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire and underwent anthropometric measurements. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-hour recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients.Results:Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model showed a higher mean fruit intake in participants in the FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (δ: 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean fruit and mean vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetable: δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit: δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetable δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g).Discussion:This study shows that improving the dietary content of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this we can further develop effective strategies to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • dutch Food Bank recipients have poorer dietary intakes than the general and low socioeconomic status dutch adult population
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2018
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, S C Dijkstra, A L M Dekkers, Marga C Ocke, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Food-assistance program users are a specific group of nutritional concern, as they are often Food insufficient and have poorer diet quality compared to non-Food-assistance program users. The aim of our study was to assess dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients (n = 167) and to compare this with dietary intake of a representative sample of the general population (Dutch National Food Consumption Survey (DNFCS-all): n = 1933), including a low-socioeconomic status (SES) sample (DNFCS-low SES: n = 312), using data from the DNFCS 2007–2010. In this cross-sectional study, 12 Food Banks throughout The Netherlands participated. Food Bank recipients’ characteristics were assessed with a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through three 24-h recalls. Habitual dietary intake (mean, percentiles, and 95% CI) was estimated for all samples. Differences between samples were determined by comparing the 95% CIs. Mean age of the study population (62.9% female) was 48.6 years (SD:10.1). Mean energy intake was 1986 (95% CI 1830–2089) kcal. The majority of the Dutch Food Bank recipients had lower intakes than dietary reference intakes for dietary fiber, fruit, vegetables, and fish (range 86.6–99.3%), and a higher intake for saturated fat [88.1% (95% CI 84.1–98.9)]. Furthermore, mean intakes of energy, fiber, fruit, and vegetables were significantly lower in Dutch Food Bank recipients than in the DNFCS-all and the DNFCS-low-SES [e.g., daily mean fruit intake (g) Food Bank recipients 62.8 (95% CI 45.5–76.5), DNFCS-all 105.8 (95% CI 105.4–117.9), and DNFCS-low-SES 85.1 (95% CI 78.7–100.2)]. Fish intake was significantly lower compared with the DNFCS-all, but not compared with the DNFCS-low-SES. Dutch Food Bank recipients, who largely rely on the content of Food parcels, are not able to meet the nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet, and their dietary intake is poorer than the general as well as the low-SES sample of the Dutch adult population. More research is needed on how to improve the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup, by, e.g., revising the content of the Food parcels, and to develop effective intervention activities.

  • Dutch Food Bank parcels do not meet nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet.
    The British journal of nutrition, 2016
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, S. Coosje Dijkstra, Marjolein Visser, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Nutritional intakes of Food Bank recipients and consequently their health status largely rely on the availability and quality of donated Food in provided Food parcels. In this cross-sectional study, the nutritional quality of ninety-six individual Food parcels was assessed and compared with the Dutch nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet. Furthermore, we assessed how Food Bank recipients use the contents of the Food parcel. Therefore, 251 Dutch Food Bank recipients from eleven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands filled out a general questionnaire. The provided amounts of energy (19 849 (sd 162 615) kJ (4744 (sd 38 866) kcal)), protein (14·6 energy percentages (en%)) and SFA (12·9 en%) in a single-person Food parcel for one single day were higher than the nutritional guidelines, whereas the provided amounts of fruits (97 (sd 1441) g) and fish (23 (sd 640) g) were lower. The number of days for which macronutrients, fruits, vegetables and fish were provided for a single-person Food parcel ranged from 1·2 (fruits) to 11·3 (protein) d. Of the participants, only 9·5 % bought fruits and 4·6 % bought fish to supplement the Food parcel, 39·4 % used all Foods provided and 75·7 % were (very) satisfied with the contents of the Food parcel. Our study shows that the nutritional content of Food parcels provided by Dutch Food Banks is not in line with the nutritional guidelines. Improving the quality of the parcels is likely to positively impact the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup.

Judith E. Neter - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • the role of Food parcel use on dietary intake perception of dutch Food Bank recipients a focus group study
    Public Health Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Mary Nicolaou, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Objective: To gain insight in Dutch Food Bank recipients’ perception on the content of the Food parcels, their dietary intake and how the parcels contribute to their overall dietary intake. Design: Eleven semi-structured focus group discussions were conducted. Focus group topics were based on Andersons Food insecurity definition: the lack of availability of nutritionally adequate Foods and the assured ability to acquire Foods in socially acceptable ways. Data were coded and analysed with Atlas.ti 7.0 software, using the framework approach. Setting: Seven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands. Participants: A total of 44 Dutch Food Bank recipients. Results: Food Bank recipients were not always satisfied with the amount, quality, variation and type of Foods in the Food parcel. For the participants who could afford to, supplementing the Food parcel was reported as main reason for buying Foods, and price was the most important aspect in selecting these Foods. Participants were not satisfied with their dietary intake; they mainly reported not having enough to eat. The content of the Food parcel importantly influenced participants’ overall dietary intake. Finally, participants reported struggling with their feelings of dissatisfaction, while also being grateful for the Foods they receive. Conclusions: This study suggests that, despite their best efforts, Food Banks are not meeting Food Bank recipients’ needs. Our results provide valuable directions for improving the content of the Food parcels by increasing the quantity, quality and variation in the Foods supplied. Whether this also improves the dietary intake of recipients needs to be determined.

  • improving the dietary quality of Food parcels leads to improved dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients effects of a randomized controlled trial
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje S Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. The aim of our study was to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. This randomized cross-over controlled trial (Trial ID: ISRCTN40554133) with four intervention conditions [(1) Control (standard Food parcel), (2) snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods), (3) FV+ (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), (4) snacks– + FV+ (standard Food parcel with replacement of unhealthy snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included 163 Food Bank recipients, from three Food Banks. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-h recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was daily fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were daily dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients. Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model, showed a higher mean daily fruit intake in participants in the FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (delta (δ): 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean daily fruit and vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV+ condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetables δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetables δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g). This study shows that improving the dietary quality of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this information we can further develop effective strategies that can be easily applied by Food Banks, to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • effect of improving dietary quality of Food parcels on dietary intake in dutch Food Bank recipients a randomized controlled trial
    Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 2020
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, Coosje Dijkstra, Jos W R Twisk, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Introduction:Since Food Banks have a strong influence on recipients’ diets, and seem to have difficulties in supporting healthy diets, improving the dietary quality of Food parcels is important. Therefore, we aimed to assess whether improving the dietary quality of Food parcels, using different strategies, can positively impact the actual dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients.Materials and methods:This randomized cross-over controlled trial with four intervention conditions [1) Control (standard Food parcel), 2) Snacks– (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods), 3) FV + (standard Food parcel plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables), 4) Snacks– + FV (standard Food parcel with replacement of snacks by staple Foods plus the recommended daily amount of fruit and vegetables)] included Food Bank recipients from three Food Banks. In total, 199 recipients were randomly allocated. At baseline, participants filled in a questionnaire and underwent anthropometric measurements. Dietary intake data were collected through 24-hour recalls after both intervention conditions at 4 and 8 weeks follow-up. Primary outcome was fruit and vegetable intake, secondary outcomes were dietary intakes of Food groups and nutrients.Results:Multi-level linear regression analysis, using a two-level model showed a higher mean fruit intake in participants in the FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (δ: 74 [40.3;107.6] g). Both mean fruit and mean vegetable intake were higher in participants in the Snacks– + FV + condition than in participants in the Control condition (fruit δ: 81.3 [56.5;106.2] g; vegetable: δ: 46.2 [17.5;74.9] g), as well as in the Snacks– condition (fruit: δ: 70.0 [38.8;101.1] g; vegetable δ: 62.2 [26.2; 98.2] g).Discussion:This study shows that improving the dietary content of Food parcels can positively impact the dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients. With this we can further develop effective strategies to improve dietary intake of Food Bank recipients.

  • dutch Food Bank recipients have poorer dietary intakes than the general and low socioeconomic status dutch adult population
    European Journal of Nutrition, 2018
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, Marjolein Visser, S C Dijkstra, A L M Dekkers, Marga C Ocke, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Food-assistance program users are a specific group of nutritional concern, as they are often Food insufficient and have poorer diet quality compared to non-Food-assistance program users. The aim of our study was to assess dietary intake of Dutch Food Bank recipients (n = 167) and to compare this with dietary intake of a representative sample of the general population (Dutch National Food Consumption Survey (DNFCS-all): n = 1933), including a low-socioeconomic status (SES) sample (DNFCS-low SES: n = 312), using data from the DNFCS 2007–2010. In this cross-sectional study, 12 Food Banks throughout The Netherlands participated. Food Bank recipients’ characteristics were assessed with a self-administered questionnaire. Dietary intake data were collected through three 24-h recalls. Habitual dietary intake (mean, percentiles, and 95% CI) was estimated for all samples. Differences between samples were determined by comparing the 95% CIs. Mean age of the study population (62.9% female) was 48.6 years (SD:10.1). Mean energy intake was 1986 (95% CI 1830–2089) kcal. The majority of the Dutch Food Bank recipients had lower intakes than dietary reference intakes for dietary fiber, fruit, vegetables, and fish (range 86.6–99.3%), and a higher intake for saturated fat [88.1% (95% CI 84.1–98.9)]. Furthermore, mean intakes of energy, fiber, fruit, and vegetables were significantly lower in Dutch Food Bank recipients than in the DNFCS-all and the DNFCS-low-SES [e.g., daily mean fruit intake (g) Food Bank recipients 62.8 (95% CI 45.5–76.5), DNFCS-all 105.8 (95% CI 105.4–117.9), and DNFCS-low-SES 85.1 (95% CI 78.7–100.2)]. Fish intake was significantly lower compared with the DNFCS-all, but not compared with the DNFCS-low-SES. Dutch Food Bank recipients, who largely rely on the content of Food parcels, are not able to meet the nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet, and their dietary intake is poorer than the general as well as the low-SES sample of the Dutch adult population. More research is needed on how to improve the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup, by, e.g., revising the content of the Food parcels, and to develop effective intervention activities.

  • Dutch Food Bank parcels do not meet nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet.
    The British journal of nutrition, 2016
    Co-Authors: Judith E. Neter, S. Coosje Dijkstra, Marjolein Visser, Ingeborg A. Brouwer
    Abstract:

    Nutritional intakes of Food Bank recipients and consequently their health status largely rely on the availability and quality of donated Food in provided Food parcels. In this cross-sectional study, the nutritional quality of ninety-six individual Food parcels was assessed and compared with the Dutch nutritional guidelines for a healthy diet. Furthermore, we assessed how Food Bank recipients use the contents of the Food parcel. Therefore, 251 Dutch Food Bank recipients from eleven Food Banks throughout the Netherlands filled out a general questionnaire. The provided amounts of energy (19 849 (sd 162 615) kJ (4744 (sd 38 866) kcal)), protein (14·6 energy percentages (en%)) and SFA (12·9 en%) in a single-person Food parcel for one single day were higher than the nutritional guidelines, whereas the provided amounts of fruits (97 (sd 1441) g) and fish (23 (sd 640) g) were lower. The number of days for which macronutrients, fruits, vegetables and fish were provided for a single-person Food parcel ranged from 1·2 (fruits) to 11·3 (protein) d. Of the participants, only 9·5 % bought fruits and 4·6 % bought fish to supplement the Food parcel, 39·4 % used all Foods provided and 75·7 % were (very) satisfied with the contents of the Food parcel. Our study shows that the nutritional content of Food parcels provided by Dutch Food Banks is not in line with the nutritional guidelines. Improving the quality of the parcels is likely to positively impact the dietary intake of this vulnerable population subgroup.

Rachel Loopstra - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • working age adults using Food Banks in england have significantly poorer health and higher rates of mental health conditions than adults in the general population a cross sectional quantitative study
    Health & Social Care in The Community, 2020
    Co-Authors: Sin Loh, Annemarie Knight, Rachel Loopstra
    Abstract:

    Food Bank use has risen rapidly in the UK since 2010. The negative health impacts of Food insecurity are well-documented, but there is a lack of quantitative research exploring the health of people using Food Banks, who are most often severely Food insecure. To address this gap, this study compares health outcomes between working-age adults using Food Banks and those in the general population in England, investigating whether adults using Food Banks are disproportionately affected by poor health, even after accounting for socioeconomic differences. Data from a survey of 598 adults using Trussell Trust Food Banks in 2016-2017 were merged with data from the Health Survey for England (HSE) from 2016. Outcome variables of interest were: self-rated health, life-limiting health conditions (disability) and self-reported metabolic, cardiovascular, musculoskeletal and mental health conditions. Logistic regression models were used to examine the odds of adults using Food Banks having health conditions, disability and poor self-rated health compared to the general population. The prevalence rates of poor self-rated health, disability, mental health disorders and musculoskeletal conditions were significantly higher among adults using Food Banks than the general population (p < .05 for all outcomes). These associations remained after accounting for gender, age, marital status, employment and education. This comparative study highlights the many health disadvantages among adults using Food Bank compared to the general population. The higher risk of poor self-rated health, disability and mental health conditions was not fully explained by measures of low socioeconomic status. Possible explanations for these findings include: first, that poor health may increase vulnerability to Food insecurity, and, in turn, use of Food Banks; second, that experiences of Food insecurity and Food Bank use may cause declines in health; and third, that Food Bank use and poor health may be joint outcomes arising from the last decade of austerity in the UK.

  • The Housing Situations of Food Bank Users in Great Britain
    Social Policy and Society, 2019
    Co-Authors: Amy Clair, Jasmine Fledderjohann, Doireann Lalor, Rachel Loopstra
    Abstract:

    Food Bank use in Great Britain has risen substantially over the last decade. The considerable socioeconomic disadvantage of the Food Bank user population has been documented, but little research has examined whether housing problems intersect with insecure Food access. Using data from 598 households accessing assistance from twenty-four Food Banks operating in Great Britain in 2016–2017, we found that nearly 18 per cent of households were homeless, with more having experienced homelessness in the past twelve months. Renters from both the private and social rented sectors were also overrepresented in the sample. Households in both private and social rented housing reported high rates of rent arrears and poor conditions; those in private housing were also more likely to live in homes with damp, to have moved in past year, and to be worried about a forced move in future. Overall, housing problems are widespread among Food Bank users; policy interventions are needed.

  • Food Bank operational characteristics and rates of Food Bank use across britain
    BMC Public Health, 2019
    Co-Authors: Rachel Loopstra, Hannah Lambiemumford, Jasmine Fledderjohann
    Abstract:

    Food Banks are a common community-based response to household Food insecurity in high-income countries. While the profile of their users and nature of the quality of Food they provide have been researched, few studies have examined their operational characteristics to explore the accessibility of their services for people at risk of Food insecurity. This study describes the nature of operations in a Food Bank network operating in Britain and explores how operations are associated with volume of use. Data from The Trussell Trust FoodBank’s network of 1145 distribution centres in 2015/16 on hours of operation, locations, and usage were combined with national statistics on Working Tax Credit claimants, disability and unemployment. Descriptive statistics focused on how often and when Food Banks were open within local authorities. The relationships between operational characteristics and volume of use were examined using regression analyses. Interaction terms tested how relationships between indicators of need with Food Bank usage changed with operational characteristics. Weekday operating hours were primarily between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., but at any given hour no more than 20% of distribution centres were open, with fewer than 3% open after 4 pm. Where Food Banks had fewer distribution centres and operating hours, the volume of Food Bank usage was lower. In-work poverty, disability, and unemployment rates were all associated with higher volume of usage; however, the relationship between disability and Food Bank use was modified by the density of Food Banks and number of operating hours. Where Food Banks were less accessible, the relationship between disability and Food Bank use was diminished. These findings suggest operational characteristics are an important part of access to Food Banks and raise questions about the ability of Food Banks to meet the needs of people at risk of Food insecurity in Britain.

  • impact of welfare benefit sanctioning on Food insecurity a dynamic cross area study of Food Bank usage in the uk
    Journal of Social Policy, 2018
    Co-Authors: Rachel Loopstra, Jasmine Fledderjohann, Aaron Reeves, David Stuckler
    Abstract:

    Since 2009, the UK has witnessed marked increases in the rate of sanctions applied to unemployment insurance claimants, as part of a wider agenda of austerity and welfare reform. In 2013, over one million sanctions were applied, stopping benefit payments for a minimum of four weeks and potentially leaving people facing economic hardship and driving them to use Food Banks. Here we explore whether sanctioning is associated with Food Bank use by linking data from The Trussell Trust FoodBank Network with records on sanctioning rates across 259 local authorities in the UK. After accounting for local authority differences and time trends, the rate of adults fed by Food Banks rose by an additional 3.36 adults per 100,000 (95% CI: 1.71 to 5.01) as the rate of sanctioning increased by 10 per 100,000 adults. The availability of Food distribution sites affected how tightly sanctioning and Food Bank usage were associated (p < 0.001); in areas with few distribution sites, rising sanctions led to smaller increases in Food Bank usage. In conclusion, sanctioning is closely linked with rising Food Bank usage, but the impact of sanctioning on household Food insecurity is not fully reflected in available data.

  • the impact of benefit sanctioning on Food insecurity a dynamic cross area study of Food Bank usage in the uk
    2016
    Co-Authors: Rachel Loopstra, Jasmine Fledderjohann, Aaron Reeves, David Stuckler
    Abstract:

    Household Food security, which may be compromised by short-term income shocks, is a key determinant of health. Since 2012, the UK witnessed marked increases in the rate of ‘sanctions’ applied to unemployment insurance claimants, which stop payments to claimants for a minimum of four weeks. In 2013, over 1 million sanctions were applied, potentially leaving people facing economic hardship and driving them to use Food Banks. Here we test this hypothesis by linking data from the Trussell Trust FoodBank Network with records on sanctioning rates across 259 local authorities in the UK. After accounting for local authority differences and time trends, as the rate of sanctioning increased by 10 per 100,000 adults, the rate of adults fed by FoodBanks by an additional 3.36 adults per 100,000 (95% CI: 1.71 to 5.01). The availability of Food distribution sites affected how tightly sanctioning and Food Bank usage were associated (p<0.001 for interaction term), such that in areas with few distribution sites, rising sanctions led to smaller increases in Trussell Trust Food Bank usage. Sanctioning appears to be closely linked with rising need for emergency Food assistance, but the impact of sanctioning on Food insecurity is likely not fully reflected in available data. There is a need to monitor household Food insecurity in the UK to fully understand the impact of government policies on this outcome.

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  • Food insecure student clients of a university based Food Bank have compromised health dietary intake and academic quality
    Nutrition & Dietetics, 2017
    Co-Authors: Jasmine Farahbakhsh, Mahitab Hanbazaza, Anna Farmer, Katerina Maximova, Geoff D C Ball, Noreen D. Willows
    Abstract:

    Aim University and college students in wealthy countries may be vulnerable to financial Food insecurity. If Food insecure students have suboptimal health, their ability to learn and excel in their education could be compromised. This Canadian study examined the relationship of Food security status to diet and self-perceived health and academic quality among students receiving emergency Food hampers from the Campus Food Bank at University of Alberta. Methods A convenience sample of 58 students completed a survey. Results Of participating students, 10.3% were Food secure, 44.8% were moderately Food insecure and 44.8% were severely Food insecure. Overall, 32.8% rated their general health as fair/poor, 27.6% rated their mental health as fair/poor and 60.3% indicated at least one adverse academic outcome of not having enough money for Food. Compared to other participating students, students with severe Food insecurity had a greater likelihood of fair/poor general health (odds ratios (OR) 4.03, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.10–14.78); fair/poor mental health (OR 4.96, 95% CI 1.28–19.19); being unable to concentrate in class or during an exam (73.1% vs 40.6%, χ2 = 6.12, P = 0.013); relying on Food hampers (34.6% vs 9.7%, χ2 = 5.57, P = 0.018); and, consuming fewer daily fruits, vegetables and legumes (2.12 vs 2.97 cup equivalents, P = 0.009). Conclusions Food insecurity compromises students’ health, diet and academic quality. Campus Food Banks are not the solution to student hunger. Governmental and university-based programmes and policies are needed to improve the Food security situation of university students.

  • filling a need sociodemographic and educational characteristics among student clients of a university based campus Food Bank
    Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition, 2016
    Co-Authors: Mahitab Hanbazaza, Anna Farmer, Katerina Maximova, Geoff D C Ball, Noreen D. Willows
    Abstract:

    ABSTRACTThe objective of this study was to characterize student clients of a campus-based Food Bank (CFB) and compare student clients with the greater population of university students. Cross-sectional data from electronic records of students who accessed the CFB at the University of Alberta were used. Most student clients studied full-time (94.4%), lived alone (67.6%), were Canadian (67.0%), were undergraduates (66.1%), and were female (58.8%). Many (17.3%) had children. Compared to the total University of Alberta population, CFB clients were older and more likely to be international, graduate, and full-time students. CFB student clients are distinct from the general student population and may be at increased risk of Food insufficiency.

  • how do student clients of a university based Food Bank cope with Food insecurity
    Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research, 2015
    Co-Authors: Jasmine Farahbakhsh, Mahitab Hanbazaza, Anna Farmer, Katerina Maximova, Geoff D C Ball, Noreen D. Willows
    Abstract:

    Purpose: To describe the Food security status, Food insecurity coping strategies, characteristics, and experiences of student clients of the Campus Food Bank (CFB) at the University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Methods: A convenience sample of 58 students completed a survey from April 2013 to April 2014. Food security status was determined using the “Adult Food Security Survey Module”. Results: Ninety percent of CFB student clients who participated in this study were Food insecure, which included both moderately and severely Food insecure groups. The most prevalent coping strategies for Food insecurity included applying for a loan or bursary (86.2%), seeking employment or working more hours (84.5%), and purchasing Food using a credit card (77.6%). Participants were a diverse mix of students, including graduate students (50.0%), international students (46.6%), and caregivers of children (24.1%). The most common primary sources of income were government student loans (29.3%) and research assista...

  • nutritional quality and price of university Food Bank hampers
    Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research, 2006
    Co-Authors: Noreen D. Willows
    Abstract:

    Purpose: Food insecurity appears to be a growing problem for post-secondary students, but little study has been made of the 51 campus-based Food Banks that exist. In 2003-04, the University of Alberta Campus Food Bank (CFB) distributed hampers intended to supply four days of Food to 630 unique clients, of whom 207 (32.8%) were children. The nutritional adequacy of Food hampers and cost saving to students were evaluated in the current study. Methods: Hampers prepared for one adult, and for one adult with one child, were nutritionally evaluated and scored for number of servings according to Canada’s Food Guide to Healthy Eating. Two types of hampers were evaluated: those containing only non-perishable items, and those containing non-perishable and perishable items. Hamper contents were priced to establish the cost saving to students. Results: The study revealed that a student with one child would receive up to $58.02 worth of Food in a hamper that contained perishable items. All hampers met the recommended ...