Nutrition survey FAQ

This study is a joint effort by the Department of Nutrition and the Nevada Center for Surveys, Evaluation, and Statistics at the University of Nevada, Reno. The study is being conducted for the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. This state agency administers the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Nevada.

How was I selected?

Your household was randomly chosen from a list of all those enrolled in SNAP according to the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services. Only a small number of households from this list was selected making your participation very important.

What is this study about?

Our goal is to improve the health of Nevadans. We are conducting a survey about buying and preparing food; exercise and physical activity; and your interest in educational programs.

How does this benefit me?

Participating in this study poses no more risk than what we experience in our everyday routines. Your participation in this study is completely voluntary and will have no impact on your SNAP benefits now or in the future. There may be no direct benefit to you or your family. By answering the survey questions, you will help to improve programs and services for SNAP households in Nevada.

Will I be paid?

Everyone who completes the survey will get a $10 gift card. The gift card will be sent to the email address you provide us. The gift card can be used online at Amazon, or at many other stores including Target and Kohl's. View names of other retailers.

How do I take part in this survey?

Participation involves taking 10-15 minutes to complete the survey. The survey may be completed online or by telephone. Both survey modes have the same questions.

If you choose to complete the survey online, you can access the survey using the unique code that was mailed to you in a letter. Completing the survey online will take about 10 minutes.

If you choose to complete the survey by phone, it will take about 15 minutes. An interviewer will call to confirm your willingness to participate in the survey. If you agree, they will ask the survey questions.

How will you keep my information secure?

We are committed to protecting your privacy. Personal information, such as your name, address and phone number, will be separated from your survey answers and immediately destroyed. Your name will never be included in any reports that result from this survey. No more than five years after the study is over, all remaining information will be destroyed.

How will my information be used?

Your survey answers will be combined with all others who complete the survey. A report of the results will then be provided to the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services and ultimately used to improve education programs.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have questions, you can contact Dr. Jamie Benedict at (775) 784-6445 or Dr. Veronica Dahir at (800) 929-9079. If you have questions about your rights as a research survey participant, you can call the University of Nevada, Reno Research Integrity Office at (775) 327-2368. If no one answers, please leave a message including your name and phone number. Your call will be returned as soon as possible.