Food donations become increasingly important during the holiday season as various initiatives emerge to assist food banks, pantries, and individuals in need. However, the focus on nutrition should not be overlooked.

“For a significant portion of the U.S. population facing food insecurity, merely having enough food is a crucial issue,” stated Dr. Heather Eicher-Miller, a nutrition science professor at Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana. “Additionally, it’s essential to have access to nutritious foods that can foster long-term health and wellness.”

In 2023, approximately 47 million Americans, including over 7.2 million children, were reported to experience food insecurity, as noted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Food insecurity refers to “limited or uncertain access to adequate and safe foods,” frequently caused by financial constraints. On the other hand, nutrition security involves consistent and fair access to “healthy, safe, and affordable foods crucial for optimal health and well-being.” While food insecurity has been associated with a heightened risk of cardiovascular diseases and mortality, inadequate nutrition can similarly lead to obesity, diabetes, and mental health challenges.

Eicher-Miller, who also leads Indiana’s Emergency Food Resource Network, co-authored a 2019 study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The study revealed that individuals who frequented food pantries displayed a higher Healthy Eating Index than those who were eligible but visited less regularly. This index serves as a gauge of diet quality based on alignment with federal dietary recommendations.

Due to growing concerns regarding dietary quality, the USDA began to focus on nutrition security alongside food security in 2022, recognizing them as complementary objectives. However, encouraging healthier eating habits among Americans presents challenges, regardless of their food security status.

In a country filled with fast food and a plethora of sugary and salty snacks, “many Americans’ diet quality leaves much to be desired,” Eicher-Miller pointed out. She emphasized that it is challenging for everyone to maintain a healthy diet, and financial limitations exacerbate this difficulty.

Many individuals, regardless of their income, may find messages promoting healthier eating to be condescending, as noted by Dr. Kelseanna Hollis-Hansen, an assistant professor of public health at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. “However, our interactions with food pantries show that numerous patrons are genuinely interested in nutritious food, even before we mention it,” she observed. “They respond positively to recipes, programs involving food demonstrations, and taste-testing opportunities.”

Across the nation, food banks and pantries, such as the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma—which serves over 1,300 programs across 53 counties—are incorporating educational materials with their food assistance. Marketing manager Austin Prickett explained, “When shoppers are in a grocery store, they’re often encouraged to choose specific products. We aim to create incentives for selecting healthier options, such as fresh produce.”

So, how can contributors assist in combating hunger while ensuring that nutrition remains a priority? Experts have shared several recommendations:

1. **Identify Needs**: Prickett expressed gratitude to donors, stating, “Food drives are immensely valuable to us. They provide a significant portion of our annual food distribution.” Eicher-Miller advised reaching out to the organization overseeing the drive to inquire about specific food shortages or essential items.

2. **Focus on Proteins and Grains**: Pantries often seek healthier food alternatives. Prickett highlighted the importance of donating protein-rich items such as canned tuna and peanut butter, as well as whole grain products like brown rice and whole wheat pasta, free from added sugars, sodium, or unhealthy fats. “This is a positive message for everyone, whether they are donating or purchasing food for personal use,” he noted.

3. **Be Mindful of Expiration Dates**: Many food donations are typically non-perishable, contrary to fresh fruits and vegetables. Hollis-Hansen advised, “Avoid donating expired items. While there are varying rules concerning food safety, most people prefer donations that are still within their sell-by date.”

4. **Financial Contributions**: Single donors may be unable to provide fresh produce like fruits, vegetables, meat, and eggs, making monetary donations vital. Eicher-Miller mentioned that many pantries welcome food donations but also need funds to acquire perishable items and replenish stocks of items that have shorter shelf lives.

5. **Volunteer Your Time**: While donations are incredibly beneficial, according to Hollis-Hansen, there’s another way for committed individuals to help ensure food and nutrition security. “Food banks and pantries are constantly in need of more volunteers,” she noted.

There is a growing awareness around the importance of combining food donations with nutrition assistance, highlighting a collective effort to support health and well-being across communities.