RETENTION OF NUTRITION KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICES AMONG ADULT EFNEP PARTICIPANTS

This preliminary study examined long-term effects on food and nutritio n behaviors and other benefits of the adult Expanded Food and Nutritio n Program (EFNEP) on participants who completed the program. Data coll ection instruments included the Family Record form and at follow-up, a n open-ended questionnaire to determine additional benefits. The impac t of EFNEP on nutrition knowledge and practices and retention of infor mation after graduation was examined among 50 participants in New York City who were assessed at program entry, graduation, and a 1-year fol low-up. For 10 of 12 food behaviors, the participants improved signifi cantly between entry and graduation. At follow-up the gains made durin g the program were maintained; significant improvement occurred for tw o behaviors. Data from a 24-hour recall revealed a significant decreas e between entry and graduation in the amount and percentage of calorie s from fat. Between graduation and follow-up, mean protein, calcium, a nd vitamin A intakes declined but were within acceptable ranges or exc eeded NRC RDAs. Significant increases in nutrition knowledge existed f or all four items examined; additional increases in nutrition knowledg e occurred between graduation and follow-up. The participants also att ributed personal and social improvement to EFNEP participation at foll ow-up including help in their jobs, community participation, and impro ved family and personal health.