Ethnicity and Food Stamp program participation: effect upon dietary intakes of low-income mothers served by a north Florida family practice center.

Ethnic differences in self-reported dietary intake between blacks and whites (participants and non-participants in the Food Stamp program) were studied in a group of 102 low-income mothers presenting themselves for treatment at an urban family practice center. The study population included 51 whites, of whom 21 were participants in the Food Stamp program, and 51 blacks, of whom 29 were Food Stamp program participants. The mean age of white and black mothers was approximately 29 years. Mean numbers of children per family were 2.1 for whites and 2.82 for blacks. Food and nutrient intake data were collected using a 24-hour recall and a food frequency questionnaire. Mean intakes of calcium, iron, riboflavin, and thiamin were found to be less than the RDAs for both groups. Whites additionally had mean intakes of vitamin A and niacin that fell below the RDAs. Blacks had significantly higher mean intakes of niacin and protein and a significantly higher 24-hour mean intake of soft drinks than whites. Being a member of the black race was positively associated with consumption of chicken, hot dogs, collard/mustard greens, and white rice. Being a member of the white race was positively associated with consumption of broccoli, potatoes, and whole wheat bread. Among participants in the Food Stamp program, mean intakes of protein, niacin, and soft drinks were significantly higher for blacks than for whites. This study suggests that ethnic differences in food preferences do exist but that those preferences do not translate into major differences in daily reported nutrient intakes.