“Colorado is thrilled that with this grant, more families will have access to healthy fruits and vegetables. Local farmers and retailers will gain new customers, and more food dollars stay in the local economy,” said Karla Maraccini, director, Food and Energy Assistance at the Colorado Department of Human Services. 

Research shows that SNAP incentive programs are an effective way to promote healthy eating and improve nutrition security. One study showed that SNAP participants who received fruit and vegetable incentives consumed 26% more fruits and vegetables per day than nonparticipants. Increased demand for fruits and vegetables also helps strengthen the food supply chain. 

“USDA is committed to ensuring every family has access to affordable, nutritious foods.” said Stacy Dean, USDA deputy undersecretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services. “We applaud the selected states for stepping up and partnering with us to test and ultimately improve SNAP incentive programs. Together we will learn more about what works and pave the way for similar programs across the country.”  

In addition to state-level projects, more and more local partners are implementing innovative SNAP healthy incentive programs. Offering incentives not only attracts SNAP customers to local stores but also gives stores the opportunity to have a positive impact in their community, making healthy foods more affordable for American families. State, local and tribal governments, SNAP-authorized retailers, and non-profit or for-profit organizations interested in launching a SNAP healthy incentive program can learn more and apply on the FNS website. Incentive programs can operate at a single location or across multiple stores.