Price and Healthfulness of Snacks in 32 YMCA After-School Programs in 4 US Metropolitan Areas, 2006-2008.

30 January 2012

The popular belief is that healthy food is more expensive than less healthy food. This study focused on the cost of daily snacks served in 32 YMCAs nationwide from 2006 to 2008 to verify this belief, and to identify possible healthier and cheaper options. On average, healthy snacks were about 50% more expensive than less healthy snacks. Thus, compared to refined grains with trans fats, refined grains with no trans fats significantly increases the cost of snacks, as did fruit and canned or frozen vegetables. Fresh vegetables (especially carrots or celery), or whole grains do not change the price.  

In this sample, healthy snacks were generally more expensive than less healthy options, but we have identified many healthy snacks served at the same price or below the price of less healthy options. To replace juice with tap water can save money that could be used to purchase healthier foods (eg, an apple). Our results show practical solutions for the selection of snacks that meet health guidelines