Unlocking SNAP Potential in Fresh Produce

Fresh Produce and SNAP: A Strategic Opportunity

Fresh produce plays a vital role in the diets of SNAP households—and there's room to grow. While 98% of SNAP participants purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, they spend 35% less per buyer and make 26% fewer produce trips than non-SNAP households. That’s not just a statistic—it’s a strategic opportunity for the fresh produce industry.

SNAP Participants

• 98% buy produce

• 35% less spend per buyer

• 26% fewer produce trips

IFPA’s Commitment to Expanding Access

At the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA), we’re committed to expanding access to fruits and vegetables for all Americans. Our recent research with Circana reveals that SNAP participants represent a significant but under-leveraged market. With the right mix of promotions, incentives, and product offerings, there’s clear potential to boost both basket size and purchase frequency.

Insights from the Research

This study dives deep into fresh fruit and vegetable buying patterns within SNAP—highlighting not just how much is spent, but where the biggest growth opportunities lie. For example, SNAP households are increasing spend on higher-value items like berries, avocados, and pineapples, and expanding into categories like spinach, cabbage, garlic, and Brussels sprouts.

Fresh colorful vegetables and fruits spread out on a table including: purple cabbage, red peppers, avocado, papaya, fennel, tomato, red onion and more.

Ripple Effect

$1B SNAP = $1.54B GDP

13,000+ jobs supported

Why This Matters

Economic Impact of SNAP

SNAP is the largest U.S. nutrition assistance program, totaling $112.8 billion in FY2023 and reaching millions of households.
Each $1 billion in SNAP benefits generates $1.54 billion in GDP and supports over 13,000 jobs—many in agriculture and food supply chains.
The average benefit of $211.93 per participant/month can stretch further when produce is made more accessible and appealing.

Turning Insight into Action

By understanding what SNAP households already buy—and where they’re willing to spend more—producers and retailers can tailor strategies that increase consumption, support public health, and grow industry sales.

98% of SNAP participants purchase fresh fruits and vegetables

This is your roadmap to serving a vital market better—and making fresh produce a bigger part of more American households' lives.

Download full SNAP research report

Mollie Van Lieu

Vice President, Food & Nutrition Policy

Government Relations

+1(202)303-3403 Email Mollie Van Lieu

Unlocking Opportunity: How SNAP Households Present Untapped Potential for the Fresh Produce Industry