Date of Graduation
Summer 8-14-2026
Document Access
Project/Capstone - Global access
Degree Name
Master of Public Health (MPH)
College/School
School of Nursing and Health Professions
Department/Program
Public Health
First Advisor
Alice Fiddian-Green
Abstract
Background: Nutrition-related chronic diseases disproportionately affect culturally diverse populations, highlighting the need for effective and equitable interventions. Digital nutrition interventions have expanded rapidly due to their accessibility; however, the extent to which they incorporate and evaluate cultural tailoring remains unclear.
Research aim: This scoping review maps the existing evidence on culturally tailored digital nutrition interventions, describes cultural adaptation strategies used, examines methods used to evaluate cultural appropriateness, and identifies gaps for future research and public health practice.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
Findings: Culturally tailored digital nutrition interventions generally improved participant engagement, acceptability, and dietary behaviors across diverse populations. Frequently reported cultural adaptation strategies included language translation, culturally relevant dietary recommendations, adaptation of educational materials, and incorporation of cultural beliefs and traditions. However, there was a lack of using validated measures of cultural appropriateness in evaluating culturally adapted digital nutrition interventions. Additionally, the substantial variation in intervention design, outcome measures, and reporting limited comparisons across studies. Few studies assessed implementation outcomes, long-term effectiveness, or sustainability, highlighting important gaps in the evidence.
Public Health Significance: Integrating cultural tailoring into the design and implementation of digital nutrition interventions can improve engagement and effectiveness among underserved populations. Standardizing the reporting and evaluation of cultural adaptation strategies, while promoting digital equity through improved access to technology and digital literacy, may strengthen the evidence base and support the development of scalable, culturally responsive nutrition interventions that reduce health disparities.
Recommended Citation
Liang, Wendy, "Cultural Tailoring of Digital Nutrition Interventions: A Scoping Review of Adaptation Strategies, Evaluation Methods, and Evidence Gaps" (2026). Master's Projects and Capstones. 2054.
https://repository.usfca.edu/capstone/2054
Included in
Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Other Public Health Commons, Telemedicine Commons
