The hub for innovative food and nutrition policy research
IFNHP advances rigorous, partnership-driven research to strengthen food and nutrition policy and improve health and well-being across Michigan and the nation.
How We Work
Embedded in Practice. Interdisciplinary Approach. Applied Impact.
IFNHP advances its mission by convening researchers, policymakers, and community partners to inform the design and dissemination of policy-relevant research. These efforts accelerate the application of evidence to real-world policy challenges.
Supports grant development and policy translation
by providing pilot funding for interdisciplinary projects
Facilitates multisector collaboration around emerging priorities
Highlighted ProjectsFeatured Work
Walkability and Urban Foraging in Detroit — Greg Rybarczyk, PhD
New research from University of Michigan-Flint geographer and IFNHP member Greg Rybarczyk and colleagues examines urban foraging, the gathering of wild fruits, nuts, and herbs, as an overlooked food resource in Detroit, where roughly 69% of households experience food insecurity. Drawing on crowdsourced data from the Falling Fruit platform and detailed neighborhood characteristics, the team mapped foraging activity across the city and found that walkability, connected sidewalks, mixed land uses, and pedestrian-friendly streets were its strongest predictor. Notably, both affluent and car-free households foraged actively, pointing to its dual role as recreation and necessity. The findings suggest that pedestrian infrastructure investments can advance transportation equity and food-system resilience at the same time.
Citation: Rybarczyk G, Shaker RR, Starking M. Walkability and urban foraging: spatial modeling of wild food access in Detroit, Michigan. Appl Geogr. 2026;190:103955. doi:10.1016/j.apgeog.2026.103955.
Sources:
An Opportunity for Partnership
IFNHP works with a range of external partners, including policymakers, community-based groups, and private companies, to ensure that our research addresses current policy needs and contributes to meaningful change.
Partnering with IFNHP enables
Advancement of innovative, policy-relevant research
Access to interdisciplinary expertise
Policy-ready products to inform your work
Faster translation of evidence into meaningful policy change
For Reporters and Media
Are you a reporter looking for a food and nutrition expert? IFNHP members are available to comment on a wide range of food and nutrition policy topics, including:
- Implementation and Impacts of Federal, State, and Local Nutrition Assistance Programs
- Food as Medicine Interventions and Infrastructure, including Prescription Produce, Medically Tailored Meals, and In Lieu of Services within Michigan
- Nutrition Labeling and Product Regulation
- Food and Nutrition Security
- Structural Determinants of Food Access
- Ultraprocessed Foods
- Sustainable Food Systems and Supply Chains, including Rural and Tribal Food Systems
- Food Justice and Food as a Human Right
- Medical Nutrition Therapy and Dietary Counseling
- Food and Nutrition Policy Research and Evaluation Methodologies
Reach out to [email protected] and we will connect you with the right expert.
IFNHP Members in the News
Why Nearly 4.3 Million People Are No Longer Receiving SNAP
Associated Press via ABC7,
May 17, 2026
SNAP participation fell from 42.8 million to 38.6 million between January 2025 and January 2026. Most of the drop came after the federal budget law (H.R. 1) expanded work requirements in July 2025. IFNHP Director Kate Bauer, Professor of Nutritional Sciences at the U-M School of Public Health, said that many families cannot work their
U-M Expert Weighs In on New Federal Dietary Guidelines
WDIV Local 4,
January 12, 2026
IFNHP member Jennifer Garner, Assistant Professor of Nutritional Sciences at the U-M School of Public Health, joined Local 4 Live to discuss the new federal dietary guidelines. The guidelines invert the familiar food pyramid and give more emphasis to meat and dairy than to whole grains. Watch the segment
Experts Call Ultraprocessed Foods a Public Health Threat
Spectrum News Michigan,
November 19, 2025
IFNHP member Ashley Gearhardt, Professor of Psychology at U-M, is one of 43 authors of a three-paper series in The Lancet. The series links diets high in ultraprocessed foods to at least 12 health conditions. The authors call for policies that target the products directly, including marketing limits for children, restrictions in schools and hospitals,
Contact Us
Whether you are seeking research expertise, exploring a collaboration, looking for a food and nutrition expert to comment on a news story, or simply have a question, we would like to hear from you. Complete the form below and a member of our team will follow up.