VeggieBooks 1.3.1

Background and the challenge:

• The country's food pantries cater to a significant client base of nearly 40 million individuals facing health issues such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other diet-related conditions. Research indicates that incorporating fresh produce into diets can help combat chronic illnesses. However, many pantry clients lack knowledge on preparing vegetables in nutritious, diverse, and appealing manners, requiring assistance in acquiring essential food management skills for healthier lifestyles.

Mobile phone app:

• To address these informational gaps, an app has been developed to provide accessible recipes and food-related knowledge tailored to the specific needs of users. The app is an extension of an acclaimed initiative that significantly increased the distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables to low-income individuals through the nation's 33,000 community food pantries. Clients can personalize their content based on their circumstances and interests.
• The app comprises two main components:
• 1. VeggieBooks: Users can access recipes and insights on utilizing fresh vegetables available at their respective pantries. With hundreds of specially curated recipes and tips at their disposal, recipients can select content according to their preferences.
  2. SecretsBooks: This section offers over 80 practical ideas with illustrations on reducing fats and sugar in diets, fostering pleasant meal environments, involving children in cooking activities, smart grocery shopping strategies, and other pre-tested engaging topics.
• App users have the convenience of printing selected content instantly at their pantry or saving it for future reference on their devices.