Earlier this year, AHA and Aramark ran a pilot program at five community centers to encourage positive food and health changes among participants, primarily single moms and others responsible for providing family meals. The 12-week program found:
- 69 percent increased fruit and vegetable consumption by at least half a serving a day.
- 48 percent increased whole grain consumption by at least one serving.
- Increased, on average, fruit and vegetable consumption by one cup a day, which is about two servings.
According to the AHA, 72 percent of U.S. adults have a poor diet and more than two-thirds are overweight or obese.
“We’re delighted with the progress we have collectively made in the past year,” said Nancy Brown, the AHA’s chief executive officer. “This proves that our work is truly advancing the health of Americans and we look forward to continuing this great work in the coming years.”
In this second year of the project, in addition to more menu changes and consumer awareness work, Aramark and the AHA plan to expand the community program, adding more health centers in other cities and focusing on interactive nutrition and wellness programs that focus on long-term health impacts.
