Improving food literacy positively influences diet quality and reduces the risk of chronic diseases; however, interpreting the evidence of its effectiveness has been limited. Results of a, have found that Foodbank Western Australia's Food Sensations for Adults food literacy program is effective in producing positive changes across a range of food literacy and dietary behaviors in participants ages 18 and older.
This study tested the effectiveness of the FSA with a quasi-experimental design. Data were collected at the start and end of the program. The control group was recruited from adult volunteers and staff at the Foodbank WA warehouse in Perth and at a Foodbank WA promotion stall during a public exposition from August to October 2020. The FSA facilitators administered preprogram and postprogram questionnaires using an evaluation protocol to maintain consistency and ethical requirements.
Andrea Begley, DrPH, School of Population Health, Curtin University in Perth, Western Australia, details the results of a new study that found that Foodbank Western Australia's Food Sensations for Adults food literacy program is effective in producing positive changes across a range of food literacy and dietary behaviors in participants ages 18 and older. The results are pertinent to government policymakers in decision-making for evidence-based public health investment.
While the FSA is a relatively short program, delivered over four weeks, researchers found it effective with demonstrated sustained behavioral change in line with other similar published programs.