Abstract

Objective: To investigate the strategies utilized by nutrition educators who collaborate with the Produce Prescription (PPR), Nutrition Incentive (NI), and Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive (GusNIP) programs of the US Department of Agriculture.

Methods: A descriptive survey (n = 41), individual interviews (n = 25), and a focus group (n = 5) are among the numerous data collection methods. Participants in the interview were educators who provide nutrition education as part of the GusNIP NI/PPR programs. Survey responses were used to calculate descriptive statistics. Methods of thematic qualitative analysis were used to code the transcripts.

Results: There were four overarching themes. First, educators have a lot more to do than just teach nutrition through the curriculum. Second, interviewees emphasized nutrition education and support with a focus on the participant. Third, associations with working together cross-area associations are fundamental. Fourth, educators proposed solutions to address the common obstacles that prevent nutrition education from being delivered in GusNIP NI/PPR programs.

Conclusions: Nutrition educators advocate for multilevel approaches to enhancing dietary intake, and it is suggested that they participate in discussions aimed at enhancing GusNIP NI/PPR programs.