ABSTRACT
We examined whether dietary intake differs across household and child food security (FS) status, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation among Black children (ages 9–15) in a low-income urban setting. This cross-sectional survey used the USDA 18-item Household Food Security Survey, which includes the 8-item Child Module, and a validated FFQ to assess children’s diet (n = 451). Nutrient intake differed across child FS status, but not household FS. SNAP participation was associated with better micronutrient intake (vitamin D and calcium) among food secure children. Assessing child-specific FS and nutrient adequacy clarifies children’s actual experience and informs child-targeted policies.
Acknowledgments
We would like to thank the families interviewed and the following students, staff, and volunteers who assisted in the project data collection.
Disclosure Statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Data Availability
The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, ACBT, upon reasonable request.