20th Annual Student Research Conference
Human Potential and Performance
Fruit and Vegetable Purchasing and Consumption Trends in Rural Northeast Missouri Residents: A Pilot Study
Rebecca N. Verhaeghe* and Nancy K. Reid
Dr. Carol Cox, Faculty Mentor
A grab sample of 175 Northeast Missouri adult residents were surveyed by trained interviewers while shopping at an area grocery store using a modified version of the CDC’s Food Frequency Questionnaire to assess frequency of fruit/vegetable consumption as well as purchasing patterns. Respondents to this survey noted similar behavior to Americans in general; as only 60% described consuming one or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Less than half surveyed could correctly state the number of fruit and vegetable servings needed each day for good health. Education level and income level seemed to determine perceived affordability of fruits and vegetables, and education level was also related to higher consumption of fruits, salads, and carrots. Grocery stores and community agencies should partner to take grassroots action to increase purchasing patterns and consumption levels of fruit and vegetables especially for lower-educated and lower socioeconomic populations.
Keywords: Northeast Missouri, Education level, income level, grassroots action
Topic(s):Health Science
Presentation Type: Oral Paper
Session: 36-1
Location: VH 1000
Time: 1:15 pm