Specialty Crop Impacts on the Environment and Health in the U.S. Midwest: A Qualitative Study Guided by the RE-AIM Framework

The agriculture sector contributed to 9.4% of total greenhouse gas emissions in the United States in 2022. While some agricultural practices may negatively impact both the environment and human health, specialty crop production may offer market benefits to some producers and potentially improve environmental and health outcomes. The study aimed to understand the environmental and health impacts of locally distributed specialty crops in the Midwest, an agricultural region focused on commodity crops. Semi-structured interviews, guided by the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance) framework, were conducted with specialty crop producers (n=11) and food access practitioners (n=15). Producers reported adopting sustainable practices and observing environmental benefits; however, more large-scale, rigorous studies are needed to show measurable impacts. While food access programs showed improved health outcomes, benefits of local food distribution were not evaluated. Findings present an opportunity for greater collaboration among food system partners to increase specialty crop production and distribution.