Abstract
Objective
To review the effect of the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in changing nutrition-related outcomes.
Methods
Relevant research conducted before December 2020 was identified using PubMed, Web
of Science, Google Scholar, and the EFNEP Research Database. The methodological quality
of each eligible study was assessed.
Results
Of the 406 studies found, 30 were eligible; 26 studies were on EFNEP, and 4 included
both EFNEP and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Nutrition Education (SNAP-Ed). The sample sizes ranged from 35 to 122,961. Outcome measures included
consumption of food groups, nutrients, other nutrition-related behaviors, and food
security. At least 1 immediate behavior change (P < 0.05) was reported in each study, but long-term maintenance of behavior change
was not evident.
Discussion
This review found a consistent, immediate improvement in nutrition behaviors after
program participation but poor retention over time. Overall, variation in programming
and outcome measures, incomplete reporting, and generally low study quality by modern
standards precluded strong conclusions.
Implications for Research and Practice
This review identified the need for control groups, improved reporting of program
protocols, theory-based curriculum, and measurement of long-term outcomes.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: April 27, 2021
Accepted:
March 19,
2021
Footnotes
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: The authors have not stated any conflicts of interest.
Identification
Copyright
Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior.
