Objectives: Chronic disease accounts for 70% of U.S. deaths, with suboptimal nutrition an important, preventable risk factor. Food insecurity is a contributor to poor nutrition. Food pantries are a regular source of groceries for the food insecure and an ideal place for nutrition literacy programs. Supporting Wellness at Pantries (SWAP) is a stoplight nutrition ranking system based on 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines, but has only been implemented in urban areas. Rural communities experience higher rates of poor health and food insecurity.
Methods: This study implements SWAP at a food pantry in a rural community with high rates of food insecurity and chronic disease. Food was sorted into "green," "yellow," and "red" items on color-coded shelves, with green foods the most accessible, and signage explaining the sorting was displayed. Surveys measured whether clients found SWAP helpful in choosing nutritious foods, particularly for households with chronic diseases.
Results: Clients reported that it was significantly (p <.0001) easier to choose items low in salt, sugar, and fat. The benefits of SWAP extended outside the pantry by increasing confidence in choosing nutritious foods while grocery shopping.
Discussion: SWAP can be an effective tool for improving nutrition literacy among food insecure rural residents with chronic illnesses.
Keywords: Food pantry; behavior change; chronic disease; food security; nutrition stoplight rating system; rural health.