Food Distribution and Food Stamp Program Effects on Food Consumption and Nutritional “Achievement” of Low Income Persons in Kern County, California

Participants in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Distribution Program received more food than they would have purchased with food stamps in the market. These participants had slightly higher achievement ratios for some specific nutrients, such as protein, iron, and thiamine, than did nonparticipants. Food stamp recipients also had somewhat similar gains in nutrients, while spending a lower percentage of money income on food than nonparticipants.