Food is Medicine Intelligence
Real-time coverage of the policies, programs, and innovations transforming healthcare through nutrition.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Benefit
Select Health Medicare members can utilize a Benefits Mastercard prepaid card to purchase a variety of health-related items, including pain relievers and other everyday wellness products. The allowance is distributed on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis depending on the specific plan, and members are advised that unused funds do not roll over to subsequent periods.
Why global grocery retailers should be learning from Loblaw
Loblaw is increasingly integrating its grocery and pharmacy operations to address consumer health and wellness needs, including nutrition and weight management. The retailer is leveraging its scale and data to position itself at the intersection of food and preventative health, a strategy that global grocery retailers are closely monitoring.
Idaho Launches Produce Prescription Program for Mothers
The Idaho State University Institute of Rural Health has launched a new maternal produce prescription program funded by a $499,465 federal grant. The initiative provides pregnant women and families in eight southeastern Idaho counties with prepaid cards or vouchers to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables, with the goal of improving maternal health and birth outcomes.
A Win and a Race: Court Removes “Significant Impairment” Requirement from Medicaid Work Requirement Exemption
A federal district court recently ruled that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) exceeded its authority by imposing a strict "significant impairment" test for Medicaid work requirement exemptions. This decision restores the original, broader definition of medical frailty established by Congress, creating new implementation challenges for states as they prepare for 2027 requirements.
Care provider guide to Medically Tailored Meals
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield has updated its provider guidance for the Medically Tailored Meals (MTM) program, which supports eligible BadgerCare Plus members in managing chronic conditions. The program integrates registered dietitian services through Foodsmart to coordinate nutrition-related treatment plans and home-delivered meals.
JMU, health officials announce $1.97M Central Shenandoah Maternal Produce Prescription Program
James Madison University and the Central Shenandoah Health District have launched a $1.97 million initiative to provide pregnant and postpartum women with monthly fresh produce vouchers and nutritional education. The program, which begins in 2027, requires a referral from a healthcare provider and aims to improve maternal and infant health outcomes by addressing food insecurity.
West Virginia Code | §9-5-35
This recently updated section of the West Virginia Code authorizes the integration of 'Food is Medicine' services into the state's Medicaid program. It directs the Department of Human Services to encourage Medicaid managed care organizations to offer nutrition-based interventions to improve health outcomes for members with chronic diseases.
Medically Tailored Meals Improved High Blood Pressure, Type 2 Diabetes and Diet in Adults: Study
A new study presented at the American Heart Association Scientific Sessions 2026 found that an eight-month program of medically tailored meals significantly improved diet quality and food security for adults with type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Participants in the study received both meal deliveries and nutrition counseling from a dietitian, demonstrating that these interventions can effectively support chronic disease management even when meal frequency is gradually reduced.
Medicaid 1115 HRSN Waivers Expire: Rescinded Guidance & Renewal Risks
This article details how the federal framework authorizing housing and nutrition services under Medicaid 1115 waivers was withdrawn in 2025, creating significant uncertainty for states seeking renewals. Providers currently relying on these waivers for nutrition counseling and home-delivered meals face potential funding cliffs as existing demonstrations expire without clear paths for approval.
Food delivery startup Wonder files for IPO as it explores its next big bite
Food delivery startup Wonder has confidentially filed for an initial public offering following years of significant fundraising and expansion. The company, which recently raised over $650 million at a $9 billion valuation, is scaling its operations and integrating automation technology to streamline food preparation.
KFF Brief Analyzes CMS's New 1115 Waiver Budget Neutrality Rules
A new KFF brief examines CMS's June 2026 guidance that reinterprets Section 1115 waiver budget neutrality requirements following their codification in federal statute. The analysis highlights how these more rigorous financial standards, including new rules for 'hypothetical' expenditures and administrative costs, may create significant hurdles for states seeking to renew or implement initiatives like health-related social needs (HRSN) services.
Food as Medicine Symposium Lauds Whole Health, Unity
The 2026 Food as Medicine Symposium convened health advocates to discuss policy, research, and the integration of nutrition into clinical care models. Experts highlighted that food prescription programs are most effective when fresh produce is delivered directly to the home, noting that current voucher redemption rates remain low.
Central Shenandoah Health District and James Madison University announce partnership to launch Maternal Produce Prescription Program
The Central Shenandoah Health District and James Madison University have launched a new program to improve maternal and infant health outcomes by providing pregnant individuals with produce prescription benefits. Participants enrolled in programs like SNAP, WIC, or Medicaid can receive $60 per month in produce vouchers throughout their pregnancy and for up to one year postpartum.
Medicare Advantage plans face scrutiny over benefit reductions for 2027
Recent industry analysis highlights a trend where Medicare Advantage insurers are scaling back supplemental benefits, including over-the-counter (OTC) allowances and grocery cards, as they navigate rising medical costs. These adjustments are prompting beneficiaries to carefully review their 2027 plan selections to ensure their essential health-related grocery and supply needs remain covered.
Instacart's plans for nationwide food-as-medicine program
Instacart has partnered with the technology company Unite Us to create a scalable, nationwide solution for delivering food-as-medicine programs. The initiative links healthcare providers and payers with grocery benefit delivery, allowing for the distribution of customized stipends that patients can redeem for nutritious food directly through the Instacart platform.
1115 Waiver Watch: A Look at Budget Neutrality Policy Changes
This KFF analysis examines how new federal budget neutrality policies and statutory provisions will impact the renewal of Section 1115 Medicaid waivers. The report highlights that states may face significant challenges in gaining approval for Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) services, such as nutrition support, as these initiatives now face stricter requirements for offsetting savings.
JMU, health officials announce $1.97M maternal produce prescription program for Shenandoah Valley
James Madison University and local health officials have launched a $1.97 million initiative to provide produce prescriptions to expectant mothers in the Shenandoah Valley. The program aims to improve maternal health outcomes by increasing access to fresh fruits and vegetables for food-insecure families in the region.
Medically Tailored Meals Tied to Lower Blood Sugar and Pressure in New York Adults, Even as Meals Tapered
A new study involving 110 adults in New York City found that an eight-month program providing medically tailored meals helped improve blood sugar and blood pressure levels in patients with chronic conditions. Participants also received nutrition counseling from a dietitian and heart health education, with researchers noting that even a gradual reduction in meal frequency did not diminish the health benefits.
Medicaid’s Social-Needs Waivers Reach Renewal With Their Federal Framework Already Rescinded
This article examines the precarious status of Medicaid Section 1115 waivers that previously funded housing and nutrition support services. It highlights that because the federal framework authorizing these non-medical programs was withdrawn in 2025, states now face significant hurdles in securing renewals for these initiatives.
Food-Is-Medicine Has No Billing Code, So A Startup Merged
The article explores the challenges faced by food-as-medicine startups, specifically highlighting how the lack of standardized medical billing codes forces companies to rely on administrative budgets rather than medical benefits. It details how Attane Health, which raised $5.5 million in funding, ultimately merged with Sifter Solutions due to the difficulties of scaling nutrition interventions within the current healthcare payment infrastructure.
PMC ‘Food is Medicine’ initiative
Pikeville Medical Center recently launched three new initiatives aimed at expanding community access to nutritious foods and healthier lifestyles. The program, highlighted at a recent event featuring Kentucky's Agriculture Commissioner, focuses on integrating food-based interventions into patient care to improve overall community wellness.
ScrubaDub Backs Medically Tailored Meals with $330K+ Pledge
ScrubaDub Auto Wash Centers has surpassed $330,000 in total contributions to Community Servings, a non-profit that provides dietitian-designed meals to individuals with chronic illnesses. The partnership highlights a successful cause-marketing model where retail businesses support the delivery of medically tailored meals to help manage complex health conditions.
The Foundation for Fresh Produce announces 2027 board
The Foundation for Fresh Produce, the philanthropic arm of the International Fresh Produce Association, has appointed its 2027 board of directors to advance initiatives that improve health outcomes through increased fruit and vegetable consumption. The board is chaired by Laura Himes, the vice president of global sourcing for produce at Walmart, highlighting the critical role major grocery retailers play in food-as-medicine and nutrition-focused health strategies.
The Croffle Guys, Solgram, Obsess, Shortgun Games, others raise early-stage funding
This report highlights recent venture capital activity in the Indian startup ecosystem, including a $1 million pre-seed funding round for the premium grocery platform Solgram. While the broader sector focuses on retail and food-tech, the funding reflects ongoing investor interest in companies that manage food supply chains and nutrition-adjacent consumer services.
NYC SNAP Users to Get 40% More for Fresh Produce at Local Markets
New York City Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced an expansion to the Health Bucks program, which provides financial incentives for SNAP beneficiaries to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. Starting in January 2027, the program will increase its matching benefit to 40% for every $2 spent on produce at participating farmers markets and farm stands.
Meijer expands access to healthy food
Meijer has integrated its payment systems to accept evermore over-the-counter (OTC) spend cards, allowing eligible Medicare Advantage members to use their supplemental health benefits for groceries and wellness products. This expansion aims to provide seniors with more convenient and accessible options for purchasing healthy food and essential health items at the retailer's locations.
Medicaid Waiver Tracker: Approved and Pending Section 1115 Waivers by State
This updated tracker from KFF provides a comprehensive overview of state-level Section 1115 Medicaid demonstrations, including those involving social determinants of health. It serves as a central resource for monitoring how states are navigating federal requirements for eligibility, benefits, and innovative service delivery models.
Calif. Food is Medicine Program Poised to Leap
The Alameda County Community Food Bank is set to double its Food is Medicine program capacity following a $300,000 multi-year investment from Blue Shield of California. This corporate sponsorship, part of a larger $600,000 state-wide initiative, highlights the growing reliance on diverse funding streams to sustain nutrition-based healthcare interventions.
Medically tailored meals may support better health outcomes in type 2 diabetes
A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2026 found that an 8-month program providing medically tailored meals to adults with type 2 diabetes and hypertension improved diet quality and cardiovascular health. Participants in the study also received nutrition counseling from a dietitian and participated in heart health education to help manage their chronic conditions.
SNAP Healthy Incentives
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Administration provides an overview of how SNAP healthy incentive programs encourage participants to purchase nutritious foods. These programs utilize various methods, including coupons, discounts, gift cards, and extra funds, to increase access to fresh produce and other healthy items for SNAP recipients.
Medicare Advantage OTC Benefits and Flex Cards in 2027: Who Gets One and What Changed
A recent analysis of 2027 CMS plan filings reveals that the prevalence of over-the-counter (OTC) allowances in Medicare Advantage plans has declined, with the share of standard plans offering these benefits dropping from 66.3% to 58.0%. While these cards are often marketed for grocery and utility expenses, the report clarifies that such food benefits are rarely included in standard plans and are primarily reserved for special needs plan members.
Medicine delivery startup Arogga raises $5.5M
Bangladeshi health-tech startup Arogga has secured $5.5 million in a seed funding round led by The Venture Collective. The company plans to utilize this new capital to scale its medicine delivery operations and enhance its in-house logistics and customer care infrastructure.
Medically tailored meals improved high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes and diet in adults
A new study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2026 found that an 8-month program providing medically tailored meals significantly improved diet quality, blood pressure, and blood sugar in adults with chronic conditions. Participants in the study also received nutrition counseling from a registered dietitian and heart health education to support long-term management of their health.
CMS Announces End of Approving Section 1115 Medicaid Demonstration Waivers’ Inclusion of Non-Medical Programs
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has formally notified state Medicaid directors that it will no longer approve Section 1115 waiver applications that include non-medical programs such as nutrition, housing, and transportation assistance. The agency maintains that these services have not historically been covered under Medicaid and should not be supported by federal matching funds.
Nation’s first state-level SNAP fresh produce incentive program shows promise, room to grow
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open evaluates Rhode Island's 'Eat Well, Be Well' program, which provides SNAP recipients with a 50% discount on fresh fruits and vegetables. While the program demonstrates potential for improving nutritional access, researchers highlight the ongoing need for better outreach and expanded accessibility to maximize its impact.
Meals-on-Wheels Now Offers Medically-Tailored Options
Elder Services of Cape Cod & the Islands has introduced new medically tailored menu options for residents living with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and kidney disease. These specialized meal plans, which include cardiac and carb-controlled options, are designed to help patients manage their symptoms through strict nutritional guidelines.
ShopRite rolls out another kit for GLP-1 users
As major retailers like Kroger and Walmart continue to integrate pharmacy services with grocery offerings, ShopRite has introduced a new nutrition kit specifically designed for patients using GLP-1 medications. This development highlights the growing trend of grocery retailers positioning themselves as essential partners in patient health management and the broader 'Food is Medicine' ecosystem.
Rep. Sykes Introduces Legislation to Expand Access to Food Farmacies
Congresswoman Emilia Sykes has introduced the Food is Medicine Access Act to increase the availability of food farmacies, produce prescriptions, and medically tailored meals for patients. The bill aims to remove barriers created by the Anti-Kickback Statute, allowing healthcare providers to offer these nutrition-based services while maintaining safeguards against fraud.
7 Medicare Advantage Benefits That Could Look Different in 2027
A recent analysis indicates that the number of Medicare Advantage plans offering over-the-counter (OTC) allowances is expected to decline by approximately 6% in 2027. Additionally, new CMS regulations now require supplemental benefit debit cards to electronically verify eligible purchases and restrict the use of funds to the specific plan year.
1115 Waiver Demonstration - New York Medicaid Redesign Team (formerly called Partnership Plan) - Renewal Request
New York has submitted a five-year renewal request for its Medicaid Redesign Team 1115 demonstration, which includes proposals to refine Health-Related Social Needs (HRSN) services such as nutrition support. The state is seeking to continue specific nutrition counseling and medically tailored meal programs while discontinuing certain infrastructure funding initiatives. A federal public comment period regarding this application is currently open through November 13, 2026.
New CMS Guidance Expands Flexibility for Food-Based Supplemental Benefits in Medicare Advantage
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released updated guidance this week clarifying how Medicare Advantage plans can utilize supplemental benefit cards to cover healthy food and produce prescriptions. This policy shift aims to streamline the integration of 'Food is Medicine' interventions by allowing retailers to more easily process OTC and nutrition-specific vouchers for eligible beneficiaries.
Deals Digest: PE-VC deal count jumps even as funding value nearly halves
The latest venture capital report highlights a mixed landscape for startup investment, noting a rise in deal volume despite a significant decline in total funding value. The report covers various sectors, including consumer-focused health and nutrition startups that align with the broader 'Food is Medicine' trend.
Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program for Food-Insecure Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Pilot Study
This pilot study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and acceptability of a 6-month produce prescription program for food-insecure pediatric and young adult kidney transplant recipients. While the intervention was found to be safe and highly acceptable, the study noted that fruit and vegetable intake did not significantly increase over the course of the program.
California’s CalAIM Program Sends Free ‘Medically Tailored’ Meals to Medi-Cal Enrollees, Including Undocumented Immigrants With Existing Coverage
California's CalAIM program provides free medically tailored meals to eligible Medi-Cal enrollees to help manage chronic health conditions. These meals are approved by registered dietitians following a nutritional assessment and provider referral, with the goal of improving health outcomes and reducing hospitalizations.
Albertsons expands 'food as medicine' partnerships
Albertsons Companies has deepened its commitment to the 'food as medicine' movement by becoming a founding member of the FoodMed Certified Program. Additionally, the retailer has joined the Fresh Connect network, a food prescription initiative that also includes major grocery chains like Walmart and Kroger.
The Utility Allowance Medicare Plans Advertise but Rarely Load
This report examines the complexities of Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits, noting that while many plans advertise grocery and OTC allowances, the actual delivery and usability of these funds can be inconsistent. It highlights that some plans utilize 'use it or lose it' rules for food and OTC cards, which can lead to confusion for enrollees managing multiple benefit types.
SWOSU Receives Federal Funding for Maternal Produce Prescription Program
Southwestern Oklahoma State University has secured federal funding to launch a four-year Maternal Produce Prescription Program aimed at improving nutrition for pregnant and postpartum women. The initiative will provide financial assistance for purchasing fruits and vegetables, alongside support from registered dietitians and connections to essential health and food services.
Summary of Benefits
This document outlines the 2027 Medicare Advantage plan benefits for AmeriHealth Caritas, which includes a monthly $58 allowance for over-the-counter (OTC) items loaded onto a plan-issued debit card. It further specifies that members eligible for Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill (SSBCI) may use their allowance for additional needs such as healthy foods, utilities, and rent.
Grocery Retailers Launch Programs for GLP-1 Users
Major grocery retailers are implementing specialized wellness initiatives, including store tours and nutrition kits, to support customers managing their health while using GLP-1 weight-loss medications. These programs aim to help shoppers maintain healthy dietary habits and navigate nutrition choices as they transition through their treatment journeys.
Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition launches
The newly formed Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition has launched to address critical gaps in nutrition access, food waste, and supply chain issues. The coalition aims to integrate food-based interventions into the healthcare system by connecting doctors with community resources to better manage chronic diseases through improved nutrition.
Structured Support Can Slow Weight Gain in Adults Off GLP-1
A recent pilot trial found that adults who stopped taking GLP-1 receptor agonists regained significantly less weight over four months when provided with dietitian-developed medically tailored meals compared to those receiving usual care. The study highlights the potential for structured nutritional support to help maintain weight loss in patients managing chronic conditions.
Top Food as medicine startups (50)
Dealroom has published an updated list of 50 global 'Food as Medicine' startups, highlighting a sector that has attracted $1.9 billion in combined venture capital funding. The report tracks emerging companies that integrate nutrition into healthcare, providing data on funding rounds, investor activity, and market signals.
West Virginia Code | §16-67-9
The West Virginia Legislature has enacted the 'Make West Virginia Healthy Act of 2026,' which includes provisions for coordinating Food is Medicine programs with Medicaid. The law directs the Office for Healthy Lifestyles to develop a Section 1115 demonstration waiver to evaluate the impact of these nutrition-based interventions on health outcomes.
Walmart expands health care marketplace
Walmart is expanding its Better Care Services platform through a partnership with General Medicine to provide a centralized online catalog for health services. This initiative allows customers to compare various health care providers and costs, further integrating the retailer's role in consumer health and wellness.
Update on Medicaid Section 1115 Waivers
The National Academy for State Health Policy (NASHP) released an update on Medicaid Section 1115 waivers, highlighting recent approvals focused on continuous eligibility and health-related social needs. The report notes that several waivers addressing housing and nutrition services were approved in the final month of the previous administration to improve health outcomes and reduce medical costs.
Why global grocery retailers should be learning from Loblaw Food is Medicine
This article highlights how major grocery retailers are increasingly integrating healthcare services into their business models to address food insecurity and nutrition access. It specifically points to Loblaw's expansion of pharmacy services and digital health tools as a model for how retail-based interventions can create pathways to healthier food for diverse populations.
Medicaid 1115 HRSN Waivers Expire: Rescinded Guidance & Renewal Risks
This article examines the precarious status of Medicaid 1115 waivers that fund housing and nutrition support services following the withdrawal of federal guidance in March 2025. It highlights that states are now facing increased scrutiny and administrative pressure during the renewal process for these health-related social needs (HRSN) programs.
Fegmo and Sifter Solutions Partner to Power a New Generation of Health and Wellness
Fegmo and Sifter Solutions have announced a strategic partnership to integrate health and wellness intelligence into grocery retailer enterprise catalogs. The collaboration aims to help retailers operationalize dietary and wellness data, enabling them to better support health-conscious shopping and food-is-medicine initiatives.
Produce Prescription Working Group
The Swetland Center for Environmental Health at Case Western Reserve University has established a working group to advance produce prescription programming in Cuyahoga County. This initiative aims to expand access to healthy foods by integrating clinical healthcare providers with local food distributors and nutrition educators to address diet-related health needs.
Ohio's Kroger gets $3 million 'MAHA' grant. Critics call it taxpayer-funded marketing.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has awarded a $3 million grant to Kroger under the 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) initiative. The program aims to boost the consumption of whole foods through strategies including in-store cooking classes and the distribution of vouchers for produce and other healthy items.
Southwest Florida Proton named 2026 ‘Startup of the Year’
Southwest Florida Proton was recognized as the 2026 'Startup of the Year' in a recent industry report highlighting regional healthcare innovation. The award underscores the growing intersection of specialized medical technology and community-focused health initiatives in the Florida healthcare landscape.
Fireside Ventures leads Series B round in healthy snacking brand Troovy
Healthy kids’ snacking brand Troovy has successfully raised Rs 100 crore ($10.6 million) in a Series B funding round led by Fireside Ventures. The startup focuses on providing nutritious, healthy food alternatives, aligning with broader market trends toward health-conscious consumer products.
West Virginia Code §16-67-9: Coordination with Medicaid
The West Virginia Legislature has formally requested the development of a Section 1115 demonstration waiver to evaluate the impact of 'Food Is Medicine' programs within the state's Medicaid system. This legislative update, effective as of late October 2026, mandates that the Office for Healthy Lifestyles coordinate with the Bureau of Medical Services to implement and report on these nutrition-based health interventions.
Arogga, a local medicine delivery startup, has recently raised US$5.5 million seed in a funding round
Bangladeshi medicine delivery startup Arogga secured $5.5 million in a seed funding round led by The Venture Collective. The company plans to utilize this capital to scale its operations and enhance its in-house logistics and technology infrastructure.
West Virginia Code §9-5-35
The West Virginia Legislature has formally authorized the use of 'Food is Medicine' services as a cost-effective strategy to improve health outcomes for Medicaid members. The policy encourages Medicaid managed care organizations to integrate these nutrition-based interventions into their programs to address chronic disease and reduce avoidable medical utilization.
2026 California Nutrition Incentive Program
The California Department of Food and Agriculture is currently accepting grant proposals for the 2026 California Nutrition Incentive Program, which aims to increase the purchase of fresh, California-grown produce by CalFresh (SNAP) recipients. The program provides funding to eligible entities, such as farmers' markets and small businesses, to distribute nutrition incentives to shoppers using their SNAP benefits.
Foodsmart Director, Member Support in Remote (US)
This job posting highlights the ongoing growth of Foodsmart, a platform focused on driving sustainable health outcomes through nutrition. The listing notes that the company secured a $200 million investment in 2024 from TPG’s Rise Fund to expand its food-as-medicine services to low-income workers.
Medicare Grocery Allowance 2027: Who Qualifies for a Food Card
This article explains the evolving rules for Medicare Advantage grocery and over-the-counter (OTC) benefit cards as they head into the 2027 plan year. It highlights that many plans now consolidate grocery and OTC funds onto a single debit card, requiring members to carefully review plan-specific rules regarding eligibility and point-of-sale usage.
HRSA awards $13M in PRx grants for maternal health
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) has awarded $13 million in new grants to support produce prescription (PRx) programs specifically focused on maternal health. These initiatives aim to integrate nutritional support into clinical care to improve health outcomes for mothers and infants.
What's at Stake in 2026: Medicaid Waivers
This article provides an overview of the current landscape of Section 1115 demonstration waivers, noting that states are increasingly using them to test innovative approaches to Medicaid. It highlights how these waivers allow states to depart from federal standards to address various program areas, including health-related social needs like nutrition.
Is a Grocery Card Worth Leaving Original Medicare in 2026?
This article examines the current landscape of Medicare Advantage grocery and over-the-counter (OTC) benefits, noting that recent CMS rules restrict these allowances primarily to enrollees with specific chronic conditions. It highlights that while many plans offer general OTC cards, grocery-specific allowances are increasingly rare and subject to strict eligibility requirements.
Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition wants to improve health through nutrition
The newly launched Philadelphia Food as Medicine Coalition aims to integrate nutrition into the healthcare system by addressing the role of food in preventing and managing chronic diseases. The initiative highlights the growing importance of medically appropriate grocery programs and policy efforts to make healthy food more accessible than ultra-processed alternatives.
Why global grocery retailers should be learning from Loblaw
Loblaw is aggressively expanding its healthcare footprint by integrating pharmacy services, physiotherapy clinics, and digital health tools into its grocery retail model. The company is specifically positioning itself to capitalize on the intersection of GLP-1 weight-loss medications and nutrition, viewing preventative health and food-as-medicine initiatives as key drivers for long-term growth.
Imperial Health Plan of California, Inc. (HMO) (HMO SNP) Named One of the Best Medicare Advantage Plans in California by U.S. News & World Report for the Third Consecutive Year
Imperial Health Plan of California announced it has been recognized as one of the best Medicare Advantage plans for 2027. The plan highlights its inclusion of generous over-the-counter (OTC) allowances as a key benefit designed to support member health and wellness.
7 Underrated Medicare Advantage Benefits Seniors Overlook
This article highlights several supplemental Medicare Advantage benefits that often go underutilized by beneficiaries, including OTC allowances and grocery cards. It notes that these benefits are typically provided via prepaid cards for use at major retailers and emphasizes the importance of reviewing plan-specific Evidence of Coverage documents.
Pilot program connects patients to nutritious food through their local pharmacy
A recent report highlights how pharmacies are increasingly prescribing food as medicine to improve patient health outcomes. The initiative, featured in research by the NACDS Foundation, explores how retail-based health interventions can create accessible pathways to nutritious food for diverse populations.
Uncovering the Power of Snap Benefits Oklahoma: Unlocking Food, Housing, and Health Assistance
This article provides an overview of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Oklahoma, detailing how eligible residents utilize EBT cards to access nutritious food. It highlights the program's role as a critical support system for vulnerable families to ensure basic nutritional needs are met.
Yes/Boston startups forge food-as-medicine partnerships
Three months after launching its inaugural cohort, the Yes/Boston accelerator is showcasing the progress of its food-as-medicine startups. Several companies within the group have successfully secured new local partnerships to advance their health-focused initiatives.
HHS says more than 250 hospitals signed up for healthier food pledge
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that over 250 hospitals have committed to a healthier food pledge to improve patient and community nutrition. This initiative aligns with broader 'Food is Medicine' efforts to integrate nutritional interventions into healthcare delivery systems.
CMS Approves Maine’s Waiver to Expand Whole Person Care
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has approved a five-year renewal of Maine's Section 1115 demonstration waiver, which includes new authority to provide nutrition supports. The initiative incorporates "Food is Medicine" services, such as medically tailored meals and fruit and vegetable prescriptions, to improve health outcomes for eligible Medicaid enrollees.
West Virginia Code §9-5-35: Food is Medicine services under the Medicaid Program
The West Virginia Legislature has enacted §9-5-35, which authorizes the use of nutrition-based interventions as a cost-effective strategy to improve health outcomes for Medicaid members. The policy directs the state's Bureau for Medical Services to permit and encourage Medicaid managed care organizations to integrate these services into their coverage plans.
Kroger improving wellness across America
Kroger continues to emphasize its role in public health by integrating pharmacy services and nutritional resources directly into its retail environment. The retailer is focusing on expanding its health-centric offerings, including prescription management and meal planning tools, to support customer wellness goals.
USDA Invests $69 Million to Support Critical Food and Nutrition Security Needs
The USDA has announced $69 million in new funding to support nutrition incentive and produce prescription programs across the country. These grants, administered through the Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program, aim to help SNAP beneficiaries and other low-income individuals afford fresh fruits and vegetables.
Beyond the Waiver: How Correctional Healthcare Partners is Helping Build a Sustainable Correctional Healthcare Model
This article discusses the operational complexities of implementing Medicaid 1115 waiver programs, specifically focusing on reentry demonstrations that bridge care between correctional facilities and community providers. It highlights how states are leveraging these waivers to integrate services and manage the administrative requirements necessary for sustainable healthcare delivery.
Medicaid Advisory Committee (MAC): Subcommittee for the 2027-2032 1115 Waiver
The Oregon Health Authority's Medicaid Advisory Committee subcommittee met on October 27, 2026, to discuss priorities for the upcoming 2027-2032 Section 1115 demonstration waiver. The session focused on advancing health equity, improving health outcomes, and directing investments toward high-impact areas, including addressing social determinants of health.
Swiss venture studio FOOD FOUNDERS raises €4M to build foodtech on industry demand
Zurich-based venture studio FOOD FOUNDERS has successfully closed an oversubscribed €4 million funding round. The firm focuses on building foodtech startups that address specific industry demands, including the growing Food is Medicine sector.
Kentucky declares itself a 'Food is Medicine' state
Kentucky has officially designated itself a 'Food is Medicine' state, focusing on leveraging its Medicaid program to address nutrition-related chronic diseases. The policy encourages Medicaid managed care organizations to implement nutrition-based interventions to improve health outcomes and aligns with care models tested under the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation.
New Research Highlights Evolving Landscape of Food is Medicine Interventions
Recent industry analysis explores how healthcare systems are increasingly integrating nutrition-based benefits, such as grocery cards and produce prescriptions, into routine care. The report emphasizes the need for CMS to refine regulatory frameworks to better support these interventions as scalable tools for managing chronic health conditions.
Rhode Island Task Force Looks to Put Food in the Prescription
A newly formed task force in Rhode Island is working to design a statewide food-as-medicine pilot program to combat the rising toll of diet-related chronic diseases. The initiative focuses on medically tailored meals, which are designed by dietitians to meet the specific medical needs of patients, potentially saving the state thousands of dollars per patient in healthcare costs.
New Report Highlights Growing Momentum for Food Is Medicine Policy and Research
A recent report from the American Heart Association's Health Care by Food initiative underscores the rapid expansion of Food is Medicine interventions, including grocery benefits and produce prescriptions. The findings emphasize the need for scalable, healthcare-integrated nutrition strategies to improve health outcomes and address chronic disease cost-effectively.
§9-5-35. Food is Medicine services under the Medicaid Program.
The West Virginia Legislature has enacted a new policy authorizing the integration of 'Food is Medicine' services into the state's Medicaid program to address nutrition-related chronic diseases. The legislation directs the Department of Human Services to encourage Medicaid managed care organizations to offer these nutrition-based interventions to improve patient health outcomes.
Kroger unveils 3 refreshed store formats
Kroger recently announced a strategic plan to introduce three new store formats over the next three years to boost market share and prioritize fresh food offerings. During the company's Investor Day, executives emphasized a 'food-first' experience that aligns with their broader health and wellness initiatives, including their ongoing Food is Medicine platform.
Nourishing Change honors founder Colleen Lindholz as retail health pioneer retires after 31-year Kroger career
This article highlights the retirement of Colleen Lindholz, a key figure in Kroger's health and wellness division who championed the integration of pharmacy and nutrition services. Her career reflects the broader industry shift toward 'Food as Medicine' initiatives, where major retailers like Kroger leverage their pharmacy and retail footprint to improve patient health outcomes.
DAVIS Breaks Ground on 17,000-SF Food & Friends Expansion in Washington, D.C.
Construction has officially begun on a 17,000-square-foot expansion for the Food & Friends headquarters in Washington, D.C., aimed at doubling the nonprofit's production capacity for medically tailored meals. The new facility will feature specialized nutrition counseling rooms and a commercial kitchen to support the growing demand for diet-sensitive chronic disease care.
VNS Health Updates Healthy Extras Card Benefits for 2027
VNS Health has updated its Healthy Extras card program for 2027, providing members with a consolidated monthly allowance. This benefit can be utilized for a variety of needs, including over-the-counter health items, grocery purchases, home utilities, and specific health care expenses.
GOP Congressman in California Swing-District Race Defends Vote for Medicaid Cuts
Representative David Valadao is facing scrutiny over his support for the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' which critics argue includes significant cuts to Medicaid funding. The debate highlights the ongoing tension in Congress regarding the future of federal healthcare programs and their impact on vulnerable populations.
Kittery Community Market Halloween Market - October 25, 2026
The Kittery Community Market in Maine recently hosted a community event featuring a 'Bumper Crop' initiative that provides children with a $3 voucher to spend on fresh produce. Additionally, the market offers a customer loyalty program where shoppers can earn a $5 food voucher for every fourth visit to the market.
Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) 3.0 — Section 1115 Waiver Application
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) has released its application for the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) 3.0, which outlines proposed changes to the state's Medicaid program. The document notes that public feedback has encouraged the state to incorporate nutrition assessment and intervention services into its preventive and chronic disease management strategies.
LegiScan: US Legislation 119th Congress Introduced
This legislative tracking update from October 22, 2026, highlights newly introduced bills in the 119th Congress, including measures addressing retail food pricing and amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The report serves as a primary source for monitoring ongoing federal policy developments related to health, nutrition, and food-related regulatory frameworks.
Aztec Group supports Synthesis Capital with landmark food technology fund
Aztec Group has provided administrative and accounting support for the final close of Synthesis Capital Fund I, which raised over $300 million. As the world's largest dedicated food technology venture capital fund, it focuses on investing in pioneering businesses that address global food challenges through innovative technology.