Pilot Randomized Trial of 2 Food Purchasing Interventions in Individuals With Hypertension in New Orleans: An American Heart Association Food Is Medicine Initiative.
Manasi Tannu, Rebecca Young, Amanda Brucker et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized pilot trial compared online and in-store food vouchers among 98 people with uncontrolled hypertension in New Orleans. Participants received a $100 monthly voucher for 5 months, along with educational materials. No difference was detected between groups in self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption; consumption increased overall by 20% (interquartile range, -17% to 93%) within both arms. Voucher use was higher with in-store vouchers (>90%) than online vouchers (<64%), while no significant changes in blood pressure, weight, or body mass index were observed.
Key findings
- Fruit and vegetable consumption increased overall by 20% (interquartile range, -17% to 93%) within both arms, with no detected difference between voucher formats.
- Voucher use was >90% in the in-store arm and <64% in the online arm.
- No significant changes in blood pressure, weight, or body mass index were observed.
Why it matters
Food vouchers may support healthier purchasing among people with hypertension, but this pilot found no advantage of online over in-store delivery for reported fruit and vegetable consumption. The greater use of in-store vouchers suggests that delivery format and engagement may affect whether participants access the intended support. The absence of observed changes in clinical measures means health benefits remain unestablished.
What to keep in mind
This was a pilot trial with 98 participants and 5 months of follow-up; consumption was self-reported, and no significant changes in clinical measures were observed.