Food practices and nutrition knowledge after graduation from the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

The Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) is a federally funded nutrition program designed to educate low-income families about key areas of nutrition and food safety This study examined the benefits gained and maintained by participants in EFNEP in food practices, nutrition knowledge, nutrient intake, and other areas. A prospective, within-subject design was used to examine a randomly selected sample of 59 EFNEP graduates in two New York State counties. Self-reported information uas gathered at: entry into EFNEP, graduation from the program, and follow-up 1 year after completion of the program. Analyses used bivariate chi-square and t-tests and multivariate regression. Food budgeting, food preparation, food safety practices, and nutrition knowledge improved between entry and graduation Most increases in knowledge and reported practices were maintained between graduation and follow-up. Few differences in reported nutrient intake were present between entry, graduation, and follow-up. Additional reported changes beyond food and nutrition occurred in education, employment, health, and community involvement. Overall, participation in EFNEP increased the nutrition knowledge and food management skills of low-income women. Many of these proficiencies persisted after completion of the program, and other benefits of the program occurred. Future analyses are needed to evaluate immediate and longer term effects of EFNEP in diverse audiences, with larger samples, using more powerful research designs, and including additional validated measures.