Business Details
Nutrition Research & Food Security Solutions
The Center for Nutrition & Health Impact (CNHI) stands as the sole independent non-profit research center dedicated to advancing public health nutrition through rigorous measurement and evaluation of nutrition-related programs. Our expertise lies in developing innovative tools to assess food insecurity, including low-burden modules that capture household resilience, nutrition security, and dietary choicedimensions not addressed by traditional USDA metrics. Selected by the USDA to lead national evaluations of nutrition incentive programs, we empower healthy eating initiatives with evidence-based insights. Our work addresses critical gaps in understanding food access barriers, particularly for communities facing systemic limitations in obtaining nutritious foods. Through collaborative partnerships, we translate research into actionable strategies that strengthen program effectiveness.Our publications and technical assistance support state agencies implementing WIC online ordering and GusNIP produce prescriptions, ensuring policies align with real-world needs. By prioritizing transparency and methodological rigor, we help partners navigate complex nutritional challenges. Our bimonthly newsletter keeps stakeholders informed about emerging research and evaluation outcomes. With a focus on equity and accessibility, we advocate for measures that reflect the diverse experiences of food-insecure households. Our team combines decades of experience in public health nutrition, program evaluation, and policy analysis to drive meaningful impact. As a trusted resource, we bridge the gap between academic research and practical implementation in nutrition initiatives.
Services
Food Insecurity Measures
Nutrition Incentive Evaluation
Program Evaluation
Research Partnerships
Dietary Assessment Tools
WIC Online Ordering Support
GusNIP Evaluation
Policy Analysis
Technical Assistance
Data Collection
Highlights and features
- We pioneered new food insecurity assessment tools adopted by USDA programs
- Our team leads national evaluations of nutrition incentive initiatives
- We specialize in evidence-based solutions for dietary access challenges
- Our research directly informs federal nutrition policy development
- We provide actionable insights through collaborative program evaluations
Services
Food Insecurity Measures
We developed innovative assessment tools that measure household resilience, dietary choice, and stability factors missing from traditional USDA metrics. These self-administered modules provide comprehensive insights into food access challenges. Our tools help organizations better understand and address systemic barriers to nutritious food availability.
Nutrition Incentive Evaluation
As USDA's selected partner, we lead national evaluations of produce prescription programs and nutrition incentives. Our technical assistance helps improve program effectiveness through evidence-based analysis. We examine how policy requirements impact participant engagement and dietary outcomes in underserved communities.
WIC Online Ordering Support
We analyze implementation challenges for WIC state agencies adopting online ordering systems. Our research identifies resource needs, technical barriers, and successful strategies from experienced agencies. This work informs best practices for expanding digital access to nutrition assistance programs.
GusNIP Evaluation
Our evaluations examine how GusNIP produce prescription eligibility affects fruit and vegetable purchases. We assess accessibility challenges in communities with limited fresh produce availability. Findings help optimize program design to better serve participants' nutritional needs.
Technical Assistance
We provide expert guidance for implementing nutrition programs through our bimonthly newsletter and direct partnerships. Our assistance covers measurement tools, policy interpretation, and evidence-based implementation strategies. This support helps organizations maximize their impact on food security outcomes.
Questions
What makes CNHI's food insecurity measures unique?
Our tools assess three critical dimensions missing from USDA surveys: household resilience, dietary choice flexibility, and stability of food access over time.
How does CNHI support nutrition incentive programs?
We serve as USDA's national evaluation center, providing technical assistance and evidence-based recommendations to improve produce prescription program effectiveness.
What challenges do WIC agencies face with online ordering?
Common barriers include technical infrastructure limitations, staff training needs, and ensuring equitable access for all participants during digital transitions.
How do GusNIP produce prescriptions impact food choices?
Our research shows fresh produce requirements may limit participation in areas with poor grocery access, highlighting the need for flexible redemption options.
How can organizations access CNHI's evaluation tools?
Contact us directly for technical assistance or subscribe to our bimonthly newsletter to stay updated on available resources and implementation guides.
