Adherence
Monetary subsidies (price discounts or vouchers) on healthier foods significantly increase the purchase and consumption of those promoted products in field settings.
To increase healthy food consumption, implement price discounts (at least 10%) or vouchers (at least $7.50) on fruits, vegetables, and low-fat snacks. These subsidies are effective across various settings (cafeterias, supermarkets, vending machines) and populations. While effects may vary, substantial financial incentives are required to overcome the high cost barrier of healthy foods.
All but one study found subsidies on healthier foods to significantly increase the purchase and consumption of promoted products.
Why this rating
The review synthesizes 24 field experiments, mostly RCTs or cohort studies, showing consistent positive results, though with some methodological limitations (small samples, short duration).
Source
Effectiveness of subsidies in promoting healthy food purchases and consumption: a review of field experiments
Ruopeng An · Public Health Nutrition · 2012
DOI 10.1017/s1368980012004715
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