In the first phase of this measures development work, CNHI developed a modular suite of measures that assess aspects of food insecurity that were not currently considered in the USDA Household Food Security Survey Module (HFSSM) and that provide practical information to inform programming.

This phase began by identifying gaps in food and nutrition security related measurement and then developing survey modules to address those gaps. Gaps were identified through literature review, consultation with experts, and interviews with individuals experiencing food insecurity across the country. Based on those inputs, we developed draft survey modules to assess the measurement gaps. We conducted cognitive interviews to further refine the modules, piloted the final items in 5 states, and developed a final modular suite of measures based on rigorous psychometric testing.

Watch the full USDA NIFA webinar for more information about the development and testing of these measures.