Research is clear that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help protect against several chronic diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. Nationwide, it is estimated that only 12.2% of adults meet the recommended amount of fruits each day and only 9.3% meet recommendations for vegetables (CDC, 2018). Kentucky falls even further below the national averages with only 8.0% of adults meeting daily recommendations for fruits and 6.3% meeting recommendations for vegetables (CDC, 2018). In response to these statistics, the Family and Consumer Sciences Agent in Trimble County offered a paper mail Food and Recipe club for calendar year 2022 featuring a particular fruit or vegetable each month.  

Over 75 individuals joined the Food and Recipe club and receive educational information on a specific fruit or vegetable monthly via the U.S. Postal Service. Recipes are also included featuring the product of the month.  A follow survey will be mailed to participants to determine if they prepared at least one recipe; if they are more likely to purchase a featured monthly product; and/or if they have tried a new fruit/vegetable.