Few associations between income and fruit and vegetable consumption

Abstract

Objective: To examine the association between income and the consumption of fruits and vegetables using the poverty income ratio (PIR).

Design: Association between PIR and intake of fruits and vegetables combined. The PIR was divided into 5 groups ranging from < poverty threshold (PT) to ≥ 400% PT.

Participants: Adults aged 18 years and older (N = 16,232) who participated in the 1999-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and fit the qualifiers.

Main outcome measures: The amount of combined fruit and vegetable intake based on income level.

Analyses: Using ANCOVA, a base model with increasing number of covariates was analyzed.

Results: Mean daily intake ranged from 253-324 g for those who consumed both fruits and vegetables (N = 16,213). In the base model, significant differences in intake occurred between those who were at ≥ 400% PT and PIR groups < 400. When age, sex, race/ethnicity, and calorie intake were added to the base model, these differences remained. Adding educational level to the model removed these differences.

Conclusions and implications: Dietary intake of fruits and vegetables is directly related to income when income reaches levels of ≥ 400% PT. These differences are mediated by education. Providing nutrition education may help individuals to reach the recommended level of consumption of fruits and vegetables.