Low Energy Density Foods May Be Out of Reach for Consumers With Limited Resources
Submitted by Glenda L. Warren, MS,RD,CFCS, Associate Professor,
Extension Nutritionist, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program
Monsivais P, Drewnowski A. The rising cost of low-energy-density foods. J Am Diet Assoc. 2007:107:2071-2076.
It is well-recognized that low energy density diets are associated with better health including better weight management. This study shows that the lowest energy density foods have the most notable price increases.
Researchers found that foods that had the high energy density were the least costly. They also found that the foods with the high energy density were less likely to increase in price at the rate of inflation.
Data collection covered the two year period during 2004-2006. A food frequency questionnaire was used based on 384 foods from three supermarkets in the Seattle area. During this period, the price of the low-energy density foods increased and the high energy density foods remained or became more affordable.
The findings are of great concern in that the healthier options as recommended in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans are less affordable.
In their conclusions, the researchers suggested these strategies to help address the energy density of the American diet:
- Supplement strategies focused on individual behaviors with environmental and policy measures to assure equal access to affordable nutrient dense foods.
- Guide consumers to select foods that provide optimal nutrition at affordable prices.
Implications for Extension
It is important to address these issues in reaching families with limited resources. Focus on techniques that can help food shoppers stay in control of what their food dollars can provide. Also focus on recognizing nutrient dense foods that are of lower energy value. Place greater emphasis on the well known basics of sound food shopping including at home pre-planning such as planning ahead for meals and shopping lists. Also, place additional emphasis on when and where families shop for food and on in-store shopping skills such as label reading , making seasonal purchases, avoiding impulse purchases, etc.
