Effectiveness of Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program in Changing Nutrition-Related Outcomes Among Adults With Low Income: A Systematic Review

ObjectiveTo review the effect of Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) in changing nutrition-related outcomes.MethodsRelevant research conducted before December 2020 was identified using PubMed, Web Science, Google Scholar, EFNEP Research Database. The methodological quality each eligible study assessed.ResultsOf 406 studies found, 30 were eligible; 26 on EFNEP, 4 included both Supplemental Assistance (SNAP-Ed). sample sizes ranged from 35 to 122,961. Outcome measures consumption food groups, nutrients, other behaviors, security. At least 1 immediate behavior change (P < 0.05) reported study, but long-term maintenance not evident.DiscussionThis found a consistent, improvement nutrition behaviors after program participation poor retention over time. Overall, variation programming outcome measures, incomplete reporting, generally low by modern standards precluded strong conclusions.Implications for PracticeThis need control improved reporting protocols, theory-based curriculum, measurement outcomes.