Food pantries get a green light for healthier choices

NCT ID NCT05854212

Not yet recruiting Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether using behavioral economics—like making healthy options easier to see—can encourage food pantries to order more nutritious foods. Researchers will give some pantries a special online ordering tool with a traffic light ranking system (green for healthy, red for less healthy). They will track if these pantries order more green-labeled foods over 12 months compared to pantries without the tool.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Behavioral economics-enhanced user interface
What this could lead to: If it works, this could help food pantries offer healthier options to people in need, improving community nutrition.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study focused on behavior change, not a direct health treatment. Results may not apply to other food banks or lead to lasting dietary improvements.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS DIETARY QUALITY FOOD INSECURITY IMPLEMENTATION SCIENCE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Massachusetts General Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

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