Oct. 17—A new interim report shows that the federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) increases produce consumption among students on days when the program is offered at schools. On days when FFVP is offered, students ate approximately one-quarter of a cup more per day of fruits and vegetables. That represents a 15% increase in produce consumption in the absence of the federal program.
The report also found that there was no increase in total caloric intake, which the authors say means that students are replacing consumption of non-produce foods with fruits and vegetables on days with the FFVP program is offered.
The USDA says the final report will expand on these preliminary findings and will include detailed information on how the program was implemented in schools.