Diet Quality and Food Security

Dr. Rogus’s Extension work focuses on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, nutrition assistance policies and programs, food access and security, and current topics in nutrition. Her research focuses on understanding relationships between food choice, dietary quality, and nutrition policy and programs.

High rates of diet-related disease in the U.S. are largely the result of food environments that encourage the procurement and consumption of foods with high energy density and low nutrient density. Over 40% of adults in the U.S. have obesity and only about 12% and 10% of adults reported meeting fruit and vegetable intake recommendations, respectively, in 2019. At the same time, 13.5% of U.S. households were food insecure in 2023.

Policies, educational programs, and environmental interventions can help address these issues by disseminating evidence-based nutrition education and facilitating healthy food choices. Dr. Rogus’ Extension work seeks to support policies, environmental strategies, and direct education that empower individuals to make healthier food choices. Her research aims to inform nutrition policy, programs, and interventions and understand their impacts on diet and food insecurity.

Faculty