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NYS FAM Research Resource Guide

Food is Medicine: Peer-Reviewed Research in the U.S.

This document reviews studies on Food is Medicine interventions, which integrate nutrition into healthcare to improve patient outcomes. It categorizes services into Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs), Medically Tailored Food Packages, and Nutritious Food Referrals, all designed to address diet-related health conditions. Overall, the evidence highlights the role of food-based interventions in that lead to improved health, reduced healthcare costs, and better dietary behaviors.

Center for Health, Law, and Policy Innovation (CHLPI). (2020, December). Food Is Medicine : Peer-Reviewed Research In The U.S. - Medically Tailored Meals, Medically Tailored Food Packages, and Nutritious Food Referrals. Harvard Law School. https://chlpi.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Food-is-Medicine_Peer-Reviewed-Research-in-the-U.S.1.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2020

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Food is Prevention: The Case for Integrating Food and Nutrition Interventions into Healthcare (CHLPI)

This report by CHLPI argues for integrating food and nutrition interventions into healthcare to prevent and manage chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular conditions. It highlights three key strategies: medically tailored meals, subsidies for healthy food, and nutrition education, all of which improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The report advocates for healthcare systems to adopt these interventions as part of comprehensive preventive care.

Downer, S., Greenwald, R., Broad Leib, E., Wittkop, K., Hayashi, K., Leonce, M., Menchaca, M. (2025, July). Food is Prevention: The Case for Integrating Food and Nutrition Interventions into Healthcare. Center for Health, Law, and Policy Innovation (CHLPI), Harvard Law School. https://chlpi.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Food-is-Prevention-Report-July-2015.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2015

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Food is Medicine Research Action Plan (CHLPI & the Aspen Institute)

The 2024 Food is Medicine Research Action Plan by the Aspen Institute outlines a strategy for integrating nutrition interventions, such as medically tailored meals and produce prescriptions, into healthcare to prevent and manage chronic diseases. It emphasizes addressing health disparities, particularly in Black and Latinx communities, and calls for equity-centered research to measure the effectiveness of these interventions. The report provides recommendations for advancing research, engaging communities, and ensuring food-based healthcare solutions are accessible and impactful.

Hager, K. PhD, MS, Kummer, C., Lewin-Zwerdling, A. PhD, MPA, Li, Z., MS. (2024, April). Food is Medicine: Research Action Plan. Food & Society, Aspen Institute. https://aspenfood.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Food-is-Medicine-Action-Plan-2024-Final.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Food as Medicine: How Food and Diet Impact the Treatment of Disease and Disease Management

The "Food as Medicine" report by the Food as Medicine Center highlights the crucial role of nutrition in preventing and managing chronic diseases, advocating for integrating food-based interventions into healthcare. It discusses key strategies like medically tailored meals, produce prescription programs, and nutrition education, which have been shown to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. The report calls for policy changes and collaboration among healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to make nutrition a central component of medical care.

Platkin, C., Cather, A., Butz, L., Garcia, I., Gallanter, M., Leung, MM. (2020, March 30). Food As Medicine: How Food and Diet Impact the Treatment of Disease and Disease Management. Center for Food As Medicine and Hunter College NYC Food Policy Center. https://foodmedcenter.org/wp-content/uploads/foodasmedicine.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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NYU Stern and Cornell Launch FoodMap NY Research Program to Identify Barriers and Solutions to Food and Nutrition Insecurity

The FoodMap NY research program, launched by NYU Stern and Cornell University, aims to identify barriers to food and nutrition insecurity in New York State and develop solutions to improve access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods. Key strategies include subsidized produce programs, alternative food purchasing models, and enhanced food distribution infrastructure to support underserved communities. The initiative also focuses on fostering economic opportunities, particularly for women and BIPOC individuals, by creating stable jobs in agriculture and food entrepreneurship.

NYU Stern, Center for Sustainable Business (CSB). (2022, May 16). NYU Stern and Cornell Launch FoodMapNY Research Program to Identify Barriers and Solutions to Food and Nutrition Insecurity. New York University. https://www.stern.nyu.edu/experience-stern/about/departments-centers-initiatives/centers-of-research/center-sustainable-business/news-events/news-insights/nyu-stern-and-cornell-launch-foodmap-ny-research-program-identify-0

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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Making Science Messages Stick in a Crowded Landscape

This article discusses strategies for effectively communicating scientific information in a way that engages both consumers and experts. While public trust in science is high, the challenge lies in making messages resonate by balancing credible data with compelling storytelling. The authors emphasize the importance of emotional connection, aligning messages with audience values, and using clear, relatable language. By tailoring communication strategies and finding common ground, science communicators can enhance the impact and retention of their messages.

Curran, J.O., Mikita, J. (2023, March 15). Making Science Message Stick in a Crowded Landscape. O'Dwyer's. https://www.odwyerpr.com/story/public/19327/2023-03-15/making-science-messages-stick-crowded-landscape.html

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Food as Medicine Research

2023

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Food is Medicine Program Standards

The "Food is Medicine Program Definitions and Standards" document, updated by the Food is Medicine Massachusetts (FIMMA) coalition, establishes standardized guidelines for implementing Food is Medicine (FIM) interventions to improve health outcomes for individuals with diet-related chronic illnesses. It defines key programs such as Medically Tailored Meals (MTMs), Medically Tailored Food Packages, Nutritious Food Referrals, and Community-Level Healthy Food Programs, ensuring consistency in service delivery. The document outlines eligibility criteria, staffing requirements, and evaluation metrics to integrate these programs effectively into healthcare systems. By following these standards, organizations can expand access to nutrition services, promoting health equity and reducing healthcare costs.

Food is Medicine Massachusetts. (2021, May). Food Is Medicine: Program Definitions and Standards. FIMMA. https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5c82ced1a56827591142c3df/t/60c8e2753b50360b5bd43b5d/1623777911566/FIM+Program+Standards+updated+6.10.21.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2021

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Healthcare X Food Research Hub

The Health Care by Food (HCXF) Research Hub, led by the American Heart Association (AHA), supports research on food-as-medicine interventions to prevent and manage diet-related diseases. The hub highlights 23 pilot studies and two secondary data analyses, providing evidence on integrating nutrition into healthcare. It serves as a centralized resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals, offering research articles and collaboration opportunities. By funding and promoting these studies, the HCXF Research Hub advances food-based interventions to improve health outcomes and inform clinical practice.

Health Care X Food. (2025). HCXF Research Hub. American Heart Association. https://www.healthcarexfood.org/en/knowledge-hub/hcxf-research-hub#sortCriteria=%40studyz32xstatus%20ascending

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Food as Medicine Research

2026

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Editorial: Food as Medicine

The "Editorial: Food As Medicine" by Andrea K. Boggild, published in Frontiers in Nutrition, highlights the growing recognition of nutrition as a critical tool for preventing and managing chronic diseases. It emphasizes the need for integrating food-based interventions into healthcare systems to improve patient outcomes. The article calls for robust research and evidence-based guidelines to effectively implement food-as-medicine strategies.

Boggild, A.K. (2024, October 8). Editorial: Food As Medicine. Frontiers: Frontiers in Nutrition. Vol. 11, Sec. Nutrition and Metabolism. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2024.1490232

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Food as Medicine Report: How Food and Diet Impact the Treatment of Disease and Disease Management

This document explores the impact of food and diet on disease treatment, prevention, and management. It emphasizes the role of nutrition in health outcomes and discusses how dietary choices can influence the progression and management of various diseases. The report also highlights the importance of integrating food-based interventions into healthcare practices to promote overall well-being.

Center For Food As Medicine & Longevity. (2022-2025). Food As Medicine Report. Hunter College New York City Food Policy Center. https://foodmedcenter.org/food-as-medicine-report/

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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Feeding America: Food as Medicine 3.0

This report provides results and key learnings from Year 2 of the Food as Medicine 3.0 (FAM3) program, facilitated by Feeding America, and participating food banks. This program is a three-year initiative that supports food bank-health care partnerships and interventions to serve patients who screen positive for food insecurity in health care settings.

Feeding America. (2025, May). Food as Medicine 3.0 - Year 2. https://www.feedingamerica.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/FAM3-Year2-Report_Final.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Food as medicine through the lenses of Food Access, Justice, and Sovereignty

The article "Food as Medicine through the Lenses of Food Insecurity and Health Equity" explores how food-based interventions can address nutritional deficiencies and reduce health disparities. It emphasizes the link between food insecurity and poor health outcomes, advocating for policies that ensure equitable access to nutritious foods. The authors highlight the role of healthcare providers in screening for food insecurity and implementing culturally appropriate nutrition interventions to improve overall health equity.

Gonzalez, N., Samad, I., Thomas, O., Rice, J., Valdez, R., Burt, K. (2025, February). Food as medicine through the lenses of Food Access, Justice, and Sovereignty. Current Opinion in Pediatrics. 37(1), 13-18. DOI: 10.1097/MOP.0000000000001417

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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FDA Proposes Requiring At-a-Glance Nutrition Information on the Front of Packaged Foods | FDA

The FDA has proposed a new rule requiring front-of-package (FOP) nutrition labels on most packaged foods to provide at-a-glance information on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars levels. This initiative aims to help consumers make healthier dietary choices and combat the rise in chronic diseases linked to poor nutrition. If finalized, the rule would complement existing Nutrition Facts labels and enhance public health by making key nutrition details more accessible.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2025, January 14). FDA Proposes Requiring At-a-Glance Nutrition Information on the Front of Packaged Foods. FDA. https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-proposes-requiring-glance-nutrition-information-front-packaged-foods

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Food Insecurity in Pregnancy, Receipt of Food Assistance, and Perinatal Complications

The study examines food insecurity during pregnancy in Northern California during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on maternal and child health outcomes. The findings indicate that food insecurity is associated with worse health outcomes for both mothers and their children, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. The study also highlights the role of food assistance programs in mitigating these negative effects, emphasizing their importance in promoting maternal and child well-being.

Chehab, R.F., Croen, L.A., Laraia, B.A., et al. (2025, January 23). Food Insecurity in Pregnancy, Receipt of Food Assistance, and Perinatal Complications. JAMA Netw Open. 8(1):e2455955. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.55955

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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This is the moment: advancing Food is Medicine through research

The article "This is the moment: advancing Food is Medicine through research" underscores the critical need for robust research to support the integration of food-based interventions into healthcare. It highlights the importance of evidence-based studies to validate the efficacy of these interventions in preventing and managing chronic diseases. The authors advocate for comprehensive research efforts to establish standardized guidelines, ensuring that food-as-medicine strategies are effectively implemented to improve public health outcomes.

Jury, Nicholas J. et al. (2025, April). This is the moment: advancing Food is Medicine through research. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 121(4), 754 - 757. https://ajcn.nutrition.org/article/S0002-9165(25)00015-2/fulltext

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Obesity Development in Canadian Children

This cohort study examines the relationship between ultraprocessed food (UPF) consumption and obesity development in Canadian preschoolers. The study found that UPFs accounted for approximately 45% of daily energy intake among three-year-old children, with higher consumption linked to increased body fat and a greater risk of overweight or obesity by age five, particularly among boys. These findings highlight the need for targeted public health policies and parental guidance to reduce UPF intake during early childhood, aiming to support healthier growth trajectories.

Chen, Z.H., Mousavi, S., Mandhane, P.J., et al. (2025, January 31). Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Obesity Development in Canadian Children. JAMA Netw Open. 8(1):e2457341. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.57341

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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More on Food as Medicine: Critical Need for Effective Interventions

This article underscores the vital connection between nutrition and chronic disease management, particularly diabetes. It references two studies: one from China revealing that healthcare providers often feel unprepared to discuss nutrition with patients, and another U.S.-based randomized controlled trial where medically tailored meals did not significantly improve clinical outcomes despite high adherence. The authors emphasize that while the concept of "food as medicine" is longstanding, effective implementation requires addressing barriers such as provider education, patient awareness, and systemic challenges. They advocate for more rigorous, context-sensitive interventions to enhance the efficacy of nutrition-based healthcare strategies.

Elnicki, D.M., Lopez, L., Conigliaro, J. (2025, March 17). More on Food as Medicine: Critical Need for Effective Interventions. Journal of General Internal Medicine (JGIM). 40, 1699–1700:e25094698. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-025-09469-8

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Impact of Fruit and Vegetable Incentive Programs on Food Insecurity, Fruit and Vegetable Consumption, and Health Outcomes: A Community Guide Systematic Review

This article presents a systematic review assessing the effectiveness of fruit and vegetable incentive (FVI) programs among low-income populations. Analyzing 30 studies published through February 2023, the review found that FVI programs significantly reduced household food insecurity in 13 out of 14 data points from 12 studies. Additionally, 21 out of 29 data points from 23 studies indicated increased fruit and vegetable consumption. Programs targeting individuals with diet-related health conditions also demonstrated improvements in blood glucose levels, with a median reduction of 0.64 percentage points. However, the review noted minimal effects on blood pressure and no significant impact on adult body mass index.

Stein, R., et al. (2025, March). Impact of Fruit and Vegetable Incentive Programs on Food Insecurity, Fruit and Vegetable Consumption, and Health Outcomes: A Community Guide Systematic Review. Center For Health Care Strategies. https://bettercareplaybook.org/resource-center-item/impact-of-fruit-and-vegetable-incentive-programs-on-food-insecurity-fruit-and-vegetable-consumption-and-health-outcomes-a-community-guide-systematic-review/

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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HIV/AIDS, Food & Nutrition Service Needs Fact Sheet

This Fact Sheet from God's Love We Deliver summarizes findings on food and nutrition service needs among individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The fact sheet highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity and providing tailored nutrition services to improve health outcomes in this population. It emphasizes the role of medically tailored meal programs in enhancing medication adherence, reducing hospitalizations, and supporting overall well-being for those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Aidala, A. & Yomogida, M., et al. (2011, October). Fact Sheet: HIV/AIDS, Food & Nutrition Service Needs. CHAIN Brief Report 2011-15, Mailman School of Public Health - Columbia University. https://www.glwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/CHAIN-Factsheet1.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2011

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Who Needs Food & Nutrition Services and Where Do They Go for Help?

This fact sheet examines the need for food and nutrition services among individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their utilization patterns. The fact sheet highlights that a significant portion of this population experiences food insecurity, leading to poorer health outcomes. It emphasizes the importance of providing access to food and nutrition services to improve health and well-being among those affected by HIV/AIDS. The fact sheet also discusses the role of community-based organizations in delivering these essential services.

Aidala, A. & Yomogida, M., et al. (2013, August). Fact Sheet 2: Who Needs Food & Nutrition Services & Where Do They Go for Help? CHAIN Brief Report 2012-3, Mailman School of Public Health - Columbia University. https://www.glwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/CHAIN-Factsheet2.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2013

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Food and Nutrition Services, HIV Medical Care, and Health Outcomes 

This fact sheet examines the impact of food and nutrition services on HIV medical care and health outcomes. The fact sheet highlights that individuals living with HIV/AIDS who receive medically tailored meals and nutrition counseling are more likely to adhere to their medication regimens and maintain regular medical appointments. These services contribute to improved health outcomes, including better management of HIV, reduced hospitalizations, and enhanced overall well-being. The findings underscore the critical role of integrating food and nutrition services into comprehensive care plans for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Aidala, A. & Yomogida, M., et al. (2013). Fact Sheet 3: Food & Nutrition Services, and Health Outcomes. CHAIN Brief Report 2012-3, Mailman School of Public Health - Columbia University. https://www.glwd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/CHAIN-Factsheet2.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2013

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​​Association of National Expansion of Insurance Coverage of Medically Tailored Meals With Estimated Hospitalizations and Health Care Expenditures in the US

This article is an economic evaluation of Medically Tailored Meals. The study estimates that providing medically tailored meals (MTMs) to eligible patients with diet-sensitive conditions and limitations in instrumental activities of daily living could potentially avert approximately 1.6 million hospitalizations and save $13.6 billion in health care expenditures annually. Over a 10-year period, the implementation of MTMs is projected to result in net savings of $185.1 billion, highlighting the potential cost-effectiveness of integrating MTMs into health insurance coverage. These findings support the consideration of MTM coverage expansion to improve health outcomes and reduce health care costs.

Hager K, Cudhea FP, Wong JB, et al. (2022). Association of National Expansion of Insurance Coverage of Medically Tailored Meals With Estimated Hospitalizations and Health Care Expenditures in the US. JAMA Netw Open. 5(10):e2236898. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2022.36898

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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The Impact of Medically Tailored Meals

This report by Community Servings and Dr. Seth Berkowitz examines how providing medically tailored meals (MTMs) to individuals with severe chronic illnesses affects healthcare utilization and costs. The study compared two programs: Community Servings' MTM program, offering meals customized to medical needs at an average monthly cost of $350 per person, and a non-tailored meal (NTM) program, similar to Meals on Wheels, costing $146 per person monthly. Findings indicated that participants in the MTM program experienced fewer hospitalizations and lower overall medical expenses compared to those receiving non-tailored meals or no meal services, suggesting that MTMs can improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.

Berkowitz, S., MD MPH, Waters, D.B. (2018). The Impact of Medically Tailored Meals: an innovative model for reducing healthcare costs and improving health. Community Servings: Food Heals. https://www.servings.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/MTM_Community-Servings-Final_Web-Friendly.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2018

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Evaluating Impact of the Food is Medicine Approach on Health

The project "Evaluating Impact of the Food is Medicine Approach on Health" assessed the effects of Medically Tailored Meals (MTM) on healthcare outcomes and costs among severely ill, nutritionally vulnerable adults. The study found that participants receiving MTM experienced a 16% reduction in monthly healthcare expenses compared to a matched control group, with notable decreases in hospitalizations and nursing home admissions. These findings suggest that integrating MTM programs can lead to significant health improvements and cost savings, informing policy and funding decisions related to healthcare services for high-need populations.

University of California San Francisco. (2018). Evidence for Action: Evaluating Impact of the Food as Medicine Approach on Health. Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. https://evidenceforaction.org/grant/evaluating-impact-food-medicine-approach-health

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Food as Medicine Research

2018

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Association Between Receipt of a Medically Tailored Meal Program and Health Care Use

This study examines the effects of Medically Tailored Meals (MTM) on healthcare utilization and costs among individuals with severe chronic illnesses. The findings indicated that receiving MTM was associated with a 49% reduction in inpatient admissions, a 72% decrease in skilled nursing facility admissions, and a 16% overall reduction in healthcare expenses. These results suggest that integrating MTM programs can lead to significant improvements in health outcomes and cost savings for patients with complex health needs.

Berkowitz, S.A., Terranova, J., Randall, L., Cranston, K., Waters, D.B., Hsu, J. (2019). Association Between Receipt of a Medically Tailored Meal Program and Health Care Use. JAMA Intern Med. 179(6):786–793. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2019.0198

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Food as Medicine Research

2019

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Health Outcomes Reported by Healthcare Providers and Clients of a Community-Based Medically Tailored Meal Program

This source is an article about health outcomes related to a community-based medically tailored meal (MTM) program. It reports that participants in the program experienced improvements in malnutrition risk, blood pressure, and diabetes management over time. The study utilized client and healthcare provider-reported data to assess changes in health outcomes for those receiving MTM services. The results suggest that MTM interventions may positively impact health, particularly for individuals with diet-related diseases.

Sautter, J.M., Henstenburg, J.A., Crafford, A.G. et al. (2024). Health outcomes reported by healthcare providers and clients of a community-based medically tailored meal program. BMC Nutr. 10(147). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40795-024-00955-6

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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An Outcome Evaluation of a Medically Tailored Meal Intervention for Older Adults with Diabetes

Survey data was collected on 50 older adults living in Solano County, a county effected by high chronic illness rates such as Type 2 diabetes (T2D). To help manage their condition and improve symptoms study participants received medically tailored meals (MTM), a weekly grocery bag, exercise classes, and health information and education. In post-survey data collection participants reported improved health factors related to T2D.

Rodriguez de Lisenko, N., Kiring, D., Scott, M., Scheuer, T., & Tobiasson , W. (2024). An Outcome Evaluation of a Medically Tailored Meal Intervention for Older Adults with Diabetes. Journal of Trauma-Informed Community Health, Nutrition, and Physical Activity: An Open Access Publication, 2(2), 11–35. https://doi.org/10.70434/j-tich.v2i2.23

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Providing medically tailored groceries and food resource coaching through the charitable food system to patients of a safety-net clinic in Dallas, Texas: a randomized controlled trial protocol

This study investigates the impact of medically tailored groceries (MTGs) and food resource coaching in a food pantry setting for patients with chronic, diet-related diseases and food insecurity. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: usual pantry services, MTGs, or MTGs with food resource coaching. The study assessed outcomes like food security, diet quality, and well-being through both quantitative measures and qualitative interviews.

Albin J, Leonard T, Wong W, et al. (2025). Providing medically tailored groceries and food resource coaching through the charitable food system to patients of a safety-net clinic in Dallas, Texas: a randomized controlled trial protocol. BMJ Open. 15(1). doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-096122

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Impact of Medically Tailored Meals on Clinical Outcomes Among Low-Income Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Randomized Trial

This article reports on a pilot randomized controlled trial that tested the impact of medically tailored meals (MTM) and medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for adults with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and low income. The intervention aimed to improve clinical outcomes such as glycemic control (A1c), diet quality, food insecurity, and overall well-being. Although the intervention showed good participation and uptake, it did not result in significant clinical improvements over usual care. The study highlights the potential of MTM and MNT but suggests the need for more integrated and comprehensive approaches to achieve clinical benefits.

Clark, J.M., Maw, M.T.T., Pettway, K. et al. (2025). Impact of Medically Tailored Meals on Clinical Outcomes Among Low-Income Adults with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Randomized Trial. J GEN INTERN MED. 40, 1711–1719. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11606-024-09248-x

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Medically Tailored Meals in Heart Failure: A Systematic Review of the Literature, 2013-2023

This systematic review examined six studies on the impact of medically tailored meals (MTMs) for heart failure (HF) patients. Findings suggested that sodium-restricted MTMs can reduce the risk of rehospitalization, while energy-restricted MTMs may improve quality of life, promote weight loss, and enhance fitness for patients with heart failure and obesity. However, more research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm these benefits and explore the underlying mechanisms of MTM interventions.

McIntosh, N. PhD, Billingsley, H. PhD, Hummel, S.L. MD, Mills, W.L. PhD. (2025, June 10). Medically Tailored Meals in Heart Failure: A Systemic View of the Literature, 2013-2023. ScienceDirect. 31(6), 939-950. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cardfail.2024.10.446

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Food as Medicine Research

2024

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Facilitators and Barriers to Reach and Enrollment into a Medically Tailored Meals Program within a Section 1115 Medicaid Pilot: Clinic Staff Perspectives

This study explores the perspectives of clinic staff on the facilitators and barriers to enrollment in a medically tailored meals (MTM) program within a Medicaid pilot. The findings highlight key factors influencing successful participation, such as effective communication and coordination with patients, as well as the logistical challenges of delivering tailored nutrition services. Barriers included patient eligibility issues, lack of awareness, and logistical constraints, underscoring the need for improved program outreach and integration with healthcare systems.

Folta, S.C., Burch, J., Alcusky, M., Ash, A.S., Hager, K., Terranova, J., Zhang, F.F., Anyanwu, O., Li, Z., Mozaffarian, D. (2025). Facilitators and barriers to reach and enrollment into a medically tailored meals program within a section 1115 Medicaid pilot: clinic staff perspectives. Front. Public Health. 13:1526564. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1526564

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Feasibility of self-investment in a medically tailored meals program by a large health enterprise: Cleveland Clinic experience

This study evaluated a medically tailored meal (MTM) program, using an online platform and internal investments from a healthcare institution. Participants received 14 frozen meals per week for three months, resulting in reduced emergency department visits and inpatient days, as well as substantial healthcare cost savings. While the program showed high patient satisfaction and positive outcomes, it faced challenges such as upfront costs and sustainability, highlighting the feasibility of MTM programs for vulnerable populations when supported by large healthcare institutions.

Haddad, E.N., Miles, R., Alejandro-Rodriguez, M., et al. (2025). Feasibility of self-investment in a medically tailored meals program by a large health enterprise: Cleveland Clinic experience. Sage Journals, Nutrition and Health. 0(0):e241307980. doi:10.1177/02601060241307980

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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The nutritional impact of 7 versus 21 home-delivered medically tailored meals in patients with heart failure and malnutrition risk: a random order crossover feeding trial (MEDIMEALS)

This study evaluates the effects of providing 7 versus 21 home-delivered medically tailored meals (MTMs) per week to patients recently discharged with heart failure (HF) and at risk of malnutrition. In this randomized crossover trial involving 46 participants, both MTM regimens led to significant improvements in malnutrition risk, adherence to American Heart Association dietary guidelines, and reductions in sarcopenia risk over a two-month period. Notably, 30-day hospital readmission rates were low for both groups, 9% for the 21-meal group and 12.5% for the 7-meal group, compared to the national average of 23%. The findings suggest that providing at least seven MTMs per week post-discharge is a promising strategy to enhance nutritional status and reduce readmissions in this patient population.

Compher, C., Henstenburg, J.A., Aloupis, M. et al. (2025). The nutritional impact of 7 versus 21 home-delivered medically tailored meals in patients with heart failure and malnutrition risk: a random order crossover feeding trial (MEDIMEALS). BMC Nutr. 11(56). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40795-025-01036-y

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Food is medicine: assessing medically tailored meals through a health equity lens for Hispanic/Latinx and monolingual Spanish-speaking populations - ProQuest

This abstract examines the implementation of medically tailored meal (MTM) programs within Hispanic/Latinx communities. It emphasizes the importance of culturally and linguistically appropriate interventions to address health disparities among monolingual Spanish-speaking individuals. The study advocates for integrating health equity considerations into MTM programs to enhance their effectiveness and accessibility for underserved populations. By focusing on culturally sensitive approaches, the research aims to improve health outcomes and promote equity in healthcare delivery.

Kahkejian, V. &Kartika, P. (025, April). 297 Food is medicine: assessing medically tailored meals through a health equity lens for Hispanic/Latinx and monolingual Spanish-speaking populations. ProQuest - Journal of Clinical and Translational Science; Cambridge. 9(s1) p. 91. DOI:10.1017/cts.2024.933

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Produce Prescription Programs US Field Scan Report: 2010-2020

This source provides a comprehensive analysis of produce prescription programs across the U.S. The report highlights the rapid growth of these programs, their geographic distribution, and variations in implementation, including prescription redemption methods and eligibility criteria. It emphasizes the importance of strong healthcare-community partnerships, integration of nutrition education, and sustainable funding sources to maximize impact. Key challenges include participation barriers and the need for standardized evaluation metrics to measure long-term health outcomes.

Rodriguez, M.E. et al. (2021, April). Produce Prescription Plans U.S. Food Scan Report: 2010-2020. Wholesome Wave & DAISA. https://www.daisaenterprises.com/uploads/4/4/0/5/44054359/produce_prescription_programs_us_field_scan_report__june_2021_final.pdf

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Food as Medicine Research

2021

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Corbin Hill Food Project: Food as Medicine Program

The Corbin Hill Food Project's Food as Medicine (FAM) program, launched in 2023, provides affordable and accessible fresh food boxes to underserved communities in Upper Manhattan and the South Bronx. The program aims to address racial and economic disparities in food access by partnering with local organizations and healthcare providers. Participant feedback highlights high satisfaction and engagement, demonstrating the program's impact on food security and community empowerment.

Corbin Hill Food Project. (n.d.). Food As Medicine Program. https://corbinhill-foodproject.org/food-as-medicine-program/

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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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Virginia Produce Rx Program

This one-pager provides an overview of Virginia's Produce Prescription (Produce Rx) initiatives, which aim to improve health outcomes by increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for individuals with diet-related health conditions. The program involves collaboration among healthcare providers, community organizations, and local food retailers to offer patients prescriptions or vouchers for produce.

Virginia Health Catalyst. (2024). The Healthy Virginia Blueprint. https://vahealthcatalyst.org/

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Food as Medicine Research

2021

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Integrating Produce Prescriptions into the Healthcare System: Perspectives from Key Stakeholders

​This study explores the facilitators and barriers to implementing produce prescription programs within healthcare settings. Through 19 in-depth interviews with experts, the research highlights the potential benefits of such programs, including improved patient diets, enhanced food security, better disease management, and increased patient engagement with healthcare services, all of which could contribute to reduced healthcare costs. Successful integration requires addressing challenges like program costs and aligning technology systems, while ensuring convenience for patients and providing adequate resources for program implementers.

Auvinen, A., Simock, M., & Moran, A. (2022). Integrating Produce Prescriptions into the Healthcare System: Perspectives from Key Stakeholders. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(17):e1711010. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191711010

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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Nutrition Incentive Hub - Produce Prescription Project

The Produce Prescription (PPR) program from the Nutrition Incentive Hub provides patients with diet-related health conditions access to fresh fruits and vegetables through prescriptions or vouchers. These programs are designed to improve health outcomes, address food insecurity, and foster partnerships between healthcare providers and community food organizations. Effective implementation requires assessing community needs, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring sustainable funding and infrastructure.
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Food as Medicine Research

2025

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NYC Health + Hospitals Launches Produce Prescription Program Study To Improve the Health of Children With Overweight and Obesity

This article highlights a research study called "Food for Health," launched at NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens in June 2022, enrolling over 250 families to assess the impact of providing free, home-delivered, locally-grown fruits and vegetables to children aged 2 to 8 with overweight or obesity. This was funded by the New York Health Foundation and the Mayor's Fund to Advance NYC, with produce supplied by Brooklyn-based 'Farm to People,' this initiative aims to improve dietary habits and health outcomes in young children at risk of chronic diseases.

New York City Health + Hospitals. (2022, June 2). New York City Health + Hospitals Launches Produce Prescription Program Study to Improve the Health of Children with Overweight and Obesity. https://www.nychealthandhospitals.org/pressrelease/health-system-launches-produce-prescription-program-study/

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Food as Medicine Research

2022

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