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Demographics, Anthropometric Measurements, Vegetable Consumption, and Food Waste of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Members in Central Minnesota
Author(s) -
Heying Emily,
Butkowski Kendra
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.31.1_supplement.651.8
Subject(s) - demographics , anthropometry , body mass index , consumption (sociology) , environmental health , agriculture , geography , medicine , agricultural science , toxicology , demography , environmental science , biology , social science , archaeology , pathology , sociology
Lack of fruit and vegetable consumption is often dependent on accessibility, affordability, and geographic location. While industrialization of food processing and growth in agricultural technology have provided methods to feed masses, there is a growing concern with the lack of knowledge provided and sustainability of how food is produced. The discrepancies among consumers regarding this has led to the rise of the sustainable food movement, which includes Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). While CSA popularity is increasing, information regarding membership and efficacy of CSA programs in encouraging healthy eating habits is limited. This study investigated the demographics, anthropometric measurements, vegetable consumption, and food waste of CSA members (n = 22) receiving a weekly vegetable share in central Minnesota. An initial survey regarding demographic and anthropometric measurements was administered to study participants at the beginning of the CSA season. Surveys regarding vegetable consumption and food waste were then administered 10 days post CSA share pickup four times during the season. Vegetables in weekly shares varied based on the growing season, but typically consisted of salad greens (ex: spinach or lettuce), cruciferous vegetables (ex: broccoli), and root vegetables (ex: potatoes). Average body mass index (BMI) of participants was 26.1 ± 4.3 kg/m 2 , average family size consuming a CSA share was 3.1 ± 1.2 persons, and average distance traveled to CSA pickup site was 3.4 ± 5.8 miles. Percentage of vegetable consumed each week was dependent on type of vegetable and family size, but not BMI. Leafy greens were thrown away by participants in higher amounts compared to other vegetables, but were also available most often in weekly shares. 80% of participants indicated that participating in the study increased awareness of food waste, but only 53% of participants believed their food waste actually decreased during the CSA season and awareness of food waste had no correlation with vegetable consumption or likelihood of throwing away vegetables. Ultimately, CSA vegetable shares provide a consistent nutritious food source as well as an educational opportunity for sustainable food systems. CSA members report eating more vegetables during the CSA growing season than the rest of the year and enjoy being part of a community focused on local food sources. Increasing awareness of CSA vegetable shares has the potential to benefit both small, local agriculture and populations seeking to improve dietary habits. Support or Funding Information College of Saint Benedict‐ New Faculty Startup Research Fundand College of Saint Benedict Undergraduate Research Fund