Healthy Incentives Pilot (2012-2014)
USDA tested SNAP produce incentives in Hamden County, Massachusetts, with about 7,500 households. Participants got 30 cents back per dollar spent on fruits and vegetables.
Pilot households ate roughly a quarter cup more produce daily, a measurable increase.
The results built the evidence base that led Congress to create GusNIP in the 2018 farm bill.
This $6.8 million award is a direct product of that pilot's findings: federal money going to an incentive model with demonstrated results.
