The data collected in the National Household Food Purchase and Acquisition Study will be used to examine how food assistance programs and other economic and demographic factors affect household food purchase decisions and health outcomes.

"For the first time, researchers will have data that captures key factors like food prices, where food is purchased, dietary knowledge, and the interplay of food assistance programs and food choices," said Rajiv Shah, Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics at USDA.

Although data exist to examine food intake by individuals, no data exist to support economic analysis of the food purchase decisions that shape intake and diet quality, particularly for low-income households.

"This study will allow us to enhance and increase the efficiency of federal nutrition assistance and education programs that serve as the nation's first line of defense against hunger and a critical safety net for the underserved Americans," said Kevin Concannon, Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services at USDA.