The Bolsa Familia cash transfer program and food and nutrition security in Brazil: a critical review of the literature

Objective. To critically review studies evaluating the impact of Bolsa Familia (PBF), a federal cash transfer program, for food and nutrition security in Brazil. Methods. The Cochrane Library, LILACS, Medline and SciELO databases were searched, as well as public organization websites. All studies based on primary data were selected. The following were excluded: studies using secondary data, review articles, studies that did now allow the establishment of associations between PBF and food and nutrition security, as well as studies evaluating food security strictly in sanitary terms. Results. Ten studies were included. Of these, five concluded that PBF had a positive impact on the food and nutrition security of participating families. Three studies observed an increase in the consumption of foods with higher calorie content and less nutritional value. This change in dietary habits is a risk factor for the development of overweight, obesity, and noncommunicable chronic diseases. Conclusions. The guarantee of food and nutrition security requires programs that focus on both malnutrition and overweight and obesity. Cash transfer programs such as the PBF can contribute more effectively to the nutritional well-being of participants if they are combined with other types of interventions, such as actions to promote healthy eating.