Double Up Food Bucks Momentum Builds as Iowa Legislature Invests $1 Million in Proven Food Access Program
Nutrition incentive programs first quarter results show high participation, healthier eating, and improved health outcomes across Iowa
DES MOINES, Iowa (May 5, 2026) — As the Iowa legislature approves a $1 million appropriation to support Double Up Food Bucks, the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative is reporting strong results from its two statewide healthy food incentive initiatives—Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB) and the Iowa Produce Prescription Program (IPPP)—demonstrating that increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables leads to measurable improvements in health and nutrition.
Following a strong first quarter, the Iowa Legislature has approved a $1 million appropriation to support Double Up Food Bucks, an investment that underscores growing statewide confidence in the program’s impact and reach.
In Q1 2026, Double Up Food Bucks achieved a 97.5% redemption rate, meaning nearly every dollar available to participants was used to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. The high participation rate reflects both the demand for the program and its effectiveness in reducing cost barriers for Iowans using SNAP benefits. DUFB matches up to $15 per day in SNAP purchases of fruits and vegetables, doubling a family’s ability to bring home healthy food.
“These participation numbers show just how valuable Double Up Food Bucks is for Iowa families and communities,” said Jami Haberl, Executive Director of the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative. “The legislature’s investment builds on the program’s foundation that’s already delivering strong results and positions it to reach even more Iowans.”
The success of Double Up Food Bucks is reinforced by outcomes from the Iowa Produce Prescription Program (IPPP), which allows health care providers to prescribe fresh produce and nutrition education as part of a patient’s care plan. Since the program’s creation in 2021, participants have shown strong and consistent engagement as well as impactful health and lifestyle outcomes:
92% average redemption rate
More than 80% report eating significantly more fruits and vegetables
Improved self‑reported health, with more participants describing their health as good or better after participating
Many participants report increased energy and sustained healthy eating habits
The need for the two programs remains significant. Iowa currently ranks 31st among U.S. states for fruit and vegetable consumption, and diet‑related chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease continue to affect thousands of Iowans. Programs like DUFB and IPPP offer a practical, prevention‑focused solution that supports healthier communities while reducing long‑term strain on the health care system.
“At a time when more people are paying attention to how food impacts health, the results are clear,” Haberl said. “When healthy food is accessible and affordable, people use it, and their health improves.”
How Double Up Food Bucks works: When customers spend $15 on fresh fruits and vegetables using SNAP benefits at a participating location, they can earn $15 in Double Up Food Bucks. These bucks can be used to buy more fresh fruits and vegetables. The program matches what you spend—$1 for $1—up to $15 each day. To earn and use Double Up Food Bucks: SNAP/EBT customers must sign up for the Double Up Food Bucks Iowa program. To learn more about Double Up Food Bucks, including participating sites, visit www.DoubleUpIowa.org.
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The Iowa Healthiest State Initiative is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization driven by the vision that every Iowan has the opportunity to live their healthiest life. By creating awareness and integrating solutions to improve the physical, social, and mental well‑being of Iowans, the organization aims to make this vision a reality. For more information, visit www.iowahealthieststate.com.