The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Nutrient Intakes

The socioeconomic determinants of Food Stamp Program participation and the effects of program participation on nutrient intakes are investigated, using data from the 2003–04 and 2005–06 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). An endogenous switching regression system of equations is estimated, which includes protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium and iron. Participation in the FSP is found to play an important role in nutrient intakes. Socio-demographic variables such as income, household size and presence of children are also found to affect individuals’ decisions on program participation and nutrient intakes.