Nutrition Environment Food Pantry Assessment Tool (NEFPAT): Development and Evaluation

J Nutr Educ Behav. 2018 Jul-Aug;50(7):724-728.e1. doi: 10.1016/j.jneb.2018.03.011. Epub 2018 Apr 24.

Abstract

Objective: To develop and evaluate a nutrition environment assessment tool to assess the consumer nutrition environment and use of recommended practices in food pantries.

Methods: The Nutrition Environment Food Pantry Assessment Tool (NEFPAT) was developed based on a literature review and guidance from professionals working with food pantries. The tool was pilot-tested at 9 food pantries, an expert panel assessed content validity, and interrater reliability was evaluated by pairs in 3 pantries. After revisions, the NEFPAT was used in 27 pantries.

Results: Pilot tests indicated positive appraisal for the NEFPAT and recommendations were addressed. The NEFPAT's 6 objectives and the overall tool were rated as content valid by experts, with an average section rating of 3.85 ± 0.10. Intraclass correlation coefficients for interrater reliability were >0.90.

Conclusions and implications: The NEFPAT is content valid with high interrater reliability. It provides baseline data that could be valuable for interventions within the nutrition environment of food pantries.

Keywords: at-risk population; emergency food; food pantries; measure development; nutrition environment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Food Assistance*
  • Food Supply*
  • Humans
  • Nutrition Assessment*
  • Nutrition Surveys* / methods
  • Nutrition Surveys* / standards
  • Nutritional Status
  • Reproducibility of Results