1
|
Aydin G, Margerison C, Worsley A, Booth A. Parental support for free school lunches in Australian primary schools: associated factors and perceived barriers. Public Health Nutr 2023; 26:3320-3330. [PMID: 37881855 PMCID: PMC10755399 DOI: 10.1017/s1368980023002240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE (1) To explore the feasibility of such programmes in Australia, this study examined parents' views on free school lunch provision. (2) To examine the associations between parents' demographic and personal characteristics and their support for free universal school lunches. DESIGN An online cross-sectional survey of parents. SETTING Australia, April 2021. PARTICIPANTS Seven hundred and eighty-seven parents took the survey. They had a mean age of 40. The respondents were predominantly female (95 %) and had a university degree (72 %). RESULTS Fifty-three percentage of the respondents agreed that all students should have access to healthy and well-balanced, free school lunches. Parents were concerned about healthiness, catering, allergies and cost of school-provided school lunches. Ethnic background, universalism values and education levels were significantly associated with support for free school lunch provision. Non-native English-speaking parents were almost three times more likely to support free universal lunches in primary schools than their native English-speaking counterparts. Parents with higher universalism-concern values were more likely to endorse free lunches in primary school. However, the level of education was negatively associated with parents' support for free school lunches. CONCLUSIONS The survey results highlight the complexity of parental views on free school lunch provision. Parents' concerns regarding lunches should be considered in developing school lunch programmes that meet the needs and preferences of diverse communities. These findings can be used to guide future primary school lunch provision initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gozde Aydin
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC3217, Australia
| | - Claire Margerison
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC3217, Australia
| | - Anthony Worsley
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alison Booth
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition (IPAN), School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC3217, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Shwed A, O'Rourke B, Bruner B, Ferguson K. Impact of COVID-19 School-Related Policies in Ontario on Parents' School Lunch Packing Habits. CAN J DIET PRACT RES 2023; 84:10-16. [PMID: 36004745 DOI: 10.3148/cjdpr-2022-022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: COVID-19 has disrupted the daily routines of many Canadian families. In Ontario, provincially mandated public health measures have resulted in significant changes to school policies, including those related to food. The impact of COVID-19 related school food policies on parental lunch packing habits is unknown; therefore, this study investigated how school-related COVID-19 policies have impacted parental school lunch packing habits.Methods: Parents (N = 287) of school-aged children were recruited from parent-specific Facebook groups across Ontario, Canada, to complete an online survey regarding lunch packing habits. This survey was developed based on findings from a previously conducted scoping review. Open-ended survey responses were inductively analyzed.Results: Three over-arching themes were constructed: (1) Food Programs and COVID-19; (2) Schedule Changes; and (3) School Policy Changes. Parents explained that the cancellation or modification of food programs at schools, changes to the length of time children are given to eat at school, and removal of access to microwaves, garbage cans, and teacher assistance during lunch have forced parents to change their lunch packing habits.Conclusion: Findings from this study demonstrate a need for better support to help ease the burden parents experience when packing their child's school lunch, during an already extremely stressful time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alanna Shwed
- School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia Okanagan, Kelowna, BC
| | - Brianne O'Rourke
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, ON
| | - Brenda Bruner
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, ON
| | - Kristen Ferguson
- Schulich School of Education, Nipissing University, North Bay, ON
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lalchandani NK, Poirier B, Crabb S, Miller C, Hume C. School lunchboxes as an opportunity for health and environmental considerations: a scoping review. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daac201. [PMID: 36715703 PMCID: PMC9885980 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Very little research has focussed on children's school lunchboxes from both a health and environment standpoint. This scoping review explores studies that considered children's lunchbox food consumption trends at school and the environmental impacts of lunchbox contents. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature with a focus on lunchboxes of children in preschool or primary school settings that contained food packed from home, through the lens of food and nutrition in combination with environmental outcomes-particularly food and/or packaging waste. The review included 10 studies, with articles from Australia, USA, Spain, New Zealand and the UK. Half of them were intervention studies aiming to shift knowledge levels and attitudes of teachers, parents and children with regard to reducing packaged food choices and food waste, and improving dietary habits. Acknowledging the complexity of lunchbox packing and consumption practices, this review recommends the consideration of socio-ecological influences on children's health and sustainability behaviour, and mobilizing their pro-environmental agency.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Brianna Poirier
- Australian Research Centre for Population Oral Health, Adelaide Dental School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Shona Crabb
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Caroline Miller
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
- Health Policy Centre, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Adelaide 5000, Australia
| | - Clare Hume
- School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide 5000, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Scott L, Ensaff H. COVID-19 and the National Lockdown: How Food Choice and Dietary Habits Changed for Families in the United Kingdom. Front Nutr 2022; 9:847547. [PMID: 35685879 PMCID: PMC9171510 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.847547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 changed the way families in the UK live, with as yet uncertain impacts to food choice and dietary habits. This study sought to explore food-related experiences and changes to behavior of families with children, during the pandemic. Semi-structured one-to-one interviews with parents (n = 20) and, separately, their children (n = 22; aged 8-10 years) were conducted. An inductive thematic approach was adopted for the data analysis, and four main themes emerged: commensality; elevated place of food in the home; snacking; and food shopping. Study findings highlighted several changes: some related to increased snacking and more takeaway food; others were more favorable, including spending more time together, increased home cooking, more efficient shopping practices and reduced food waste. Overall, an elevation of the place of food within the home was apparent, alongside enhanced food literacy, and some evidence of the relocalisation of food. This study contributes to the international literature on the impact of COVID-19 and national lockdowns on family lifestyle behaviors, specifically food choice and dietary habits; further research into the longer-term effects of COVID-19 on family food practices is required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - H. Ensaff
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Alkhunain N, Moore JB, Ensaff H. Online Pre-Order Systems for School Lunches: Insights from a Cross-Sectional Study in Primary Schools. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14050951. [PMID: 35267926 PMCID: PMC8912561 DOI: 10.3390/nu14050951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Schools are increasingly using online pre-order systems for children to select school meals in advance. This study aimed to explore how children use and interact with these systems. Using a combination of direct observation and an online questionnaire, the operation of these systems in four UK primary schools was examined. This included how the menu options were displayed, how these were selected by children (4–11 years), and the interactions between children and others when making food selections. Where possible, most children pre-ordered their school lunch in the classroom, and differences in the food choice process among children were observed. These apparently related to children’s ages; older children (8–11 years) showed more independence when making food selections, whereas younger children were often supported by others. Most parents reported that their child was the decision maker when pre-ordering the school lunch, and the role of children in the selection of school lunches was evident. This may be accentuated by the online pre-order systems, and given the likely expansion of these systems in schools, there is an opportunity to implement interventions to influence children towards specific or different meal options from the school menu.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nahlah Alkhunain
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (N.A.); (J.B.M.)
- Clinical Nutrition, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Riyadh 11564, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jennifer Bernadette Moore
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (N.A.); (J.B.M.)
| | - Hannah Ensaff
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, School of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (N.A.); (J.B.M.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Fu J, Liang F, Wang Y, Qiu N, Ding K, Zeng J, Moore JB, Li R. Modeling Parental Influence on Food Consumption among Chinese Adolescents through Self-Efficacy: A Path Analysis. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124454. [PMID: 34960008 PMCID: PMC8705551 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Revised: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the associations between perceived parental control, perceived parental modeling and parent–teen co-decision making, and fruit and vegetable (F&V) and sugar-sweetened beverage and junk food (S&J) consumption among Chinese adolescents, and examine whether self-efficacy mediates the associations. Data were collected in a cross-sectional survey of Chinese adolescents carried out in the fall of 2019. The questionnaires were adapted from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) Study. Ordinary least-squares regressions and a path analysis were performed to evaluate the hypothesized associations. The final sample included 3595 Chinese adolescents (mean (SD) age, 14.67 (1.73) years; 52.82% (n = 1899) males). Perceived parental control was positively associated with adolescents’ F&V consumption, and was negatively associated with adolescents’ S&J consumption. Perceived parental modeling and parent–teen co-decision making were both positively associated with adolescents’ F&V consumption and negatively associated with their S&J consumption. Adolescents’ self-efficacy was positively associated with F&V consumption and negatively associated with S&J consumption. These results suggest that serving as a positive role model, having adolescents participate in the decision-making process, and increasing adolescents’ self-efficacy can be feasible and efficacious strategies to improve the nutritional quality of Chinese adolescents’ diets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jialin Fu
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Fang Liang
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Yechuang Wang
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Nan Qiu
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Kai Ding
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Jing Zeng
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
| | - Justin Brian Moore
- Department of Implementation Science, Division of Public Health Sciences, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA;
| | - Rui Li
- Department of Healthcare Management, School of Public Health, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China; (J.F.); (F.L.); (Y.W.); (N.Q.); (K.D.); (J.Z.)
- School of Nursing, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-27-68759901; Fax: +86-27-68758648
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Lindquist K, Mann G, Farris A, Gordon K, Misyak S. Parent Perspectives of Packing School Lunches. JOURNAL OF HUNGER & ENVIRONMENTAL NUTRITION 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19320248.2021.1994081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kayla Lindquist
- Department Nutrition and Hospitality Management, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Georgianna Mann
- Department Nutrition and Hospitality Management, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Alisha Farris
- Nutrition and Foods Program, Appalachian State University, Boone, USA
| | - Kymberle Gordon
- Department Nutrition and Hospitality Management, University of Mississippi, University, MS, USA
| | - Sarah Misyak
- Department of Human Nutrition, Foods, and Exercise, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hornsby B, Ensaff H. Perspectives on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Government Dietary Guidelines: Content Analysis of Comments on News Websites. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e19917. [PMID: 34420913 PMCID: PMC8414297 DOI: 10.2196/19917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND News websites are an essential source of medical news for the public. Many websites offer users the opportunity to leave comments, which may provide rich insights into public perspectives on health issues. With an established role in public health, fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption is central to the government's dietary guidelines. However, FV intake continues to fall short of government recommendations. OBJECTIVE Using comments from news websites, this study aims to explore public perspectives on FV intake and related government dietary guidelines. METHODS Data comprised 2696 web user comments generated in response to substantial media coverage for a meta-analysis examining FV consumption and the risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and total cancer. Using an inductive thematic approach, the data were analyzed and coded in an iterative process. RESULTS Four overarching themes emerged: personal factors, rejection, lack of knowledge, and food landscape, each with component subthemes. The lack of clarity around government dietary health guidelines was apparent, and this, along with emergent personal factors, may hinder better consumption. Rejection was also evident, as was a quality versus quantity of life debate. CONCLUSIONS There are gaps in the public's understanding of government guidelines, which may act as a constraint to better compliance. Further work should examine this issue and rejection and the possibility of public fatigue related to dietary health information and news. Similarly, future work should also explore targeted interventions with a specific emphasis on health literacy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Hornsby
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - H Ensaff
- Nutritional Sciences and Epidemiology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gan K, Tithecott C, Neilson L, Seabrook JA, Dworatzek P. Picky Eating Is Associated with Lower Nutrient Intakes from Children's Home-Packed School Lunches. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13061759. [PMID: 34064118 PMCID: PMC8224271 DOI: 10.3390/nu13061759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to assess the relationship between children’s picky eating (PE) status and nutrient intake from home-packed school lunches. The lunches of 321 students, aged 7–10 years, were quantified via cross-sectional direct observation. Children were classified as having PE (n = 155) or not (non-PE; n = 166) based on food neophobia scores and parental perceptions of PE. The PE group consumed significantly less protein, folate, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, D, and E than the non-PE group; however, both groups consumed amounts exceeding Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) for protein, carbohydrates, sugar, sodium, iron, and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, and C. Conversely, both groups consumed amounts significantly lower than DRIs for calcium, fibre, folate, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and vitamins A, D, E, and K. The PE group ate significantly less meat and alternatives, vegetables and fruit, and fruit than the non-PE group, and did not meet any of Canada’s Food Guide (2007) recommendations. The non-PE group met recommendations for meat and alternatives only. PE impacts the dietary intake of children’s home-packed lunches; however, many packed lunches were of low nutritional quality. Focus should be placed on provision of nutritionally complete school lunches for all children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kellseigh Gan
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, 1285 Western Road, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada; (K.G.); (C.T.); (L.N.); (J.A.S.)
| | - Carly Tithecott
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, 1285 Western Road, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada; (K.G.); (C.T.); (L.N.); (J.A.S.)
| | - Lisa Neilson
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, 1285 Western Road, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada; (K.G.); (C.T.); (L.N.); (J.A.S.)
| | - Jamie A. Seabrook
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, 1285 Western Road, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada; (K.G.); (C.T.); (L.N.); (J.A.S.)
- Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Human Environments Analysis Laboratory, Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
- Children′s Health Research Institute, 800 Commissioners Road East, London, ON N6C 2V5, Canada
- Lawson Health Research Institute, 750 Base Line Road East, Suite 300, London, ON N6C 2R5, Canada
| | - Paula Dworatzek
- School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Brescia University College at Western University, 1285 Western Road, London, ON N6G 1H2, Canada; (K.G.); (C.T.); (L.N.); (J.A.S.)
- Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, 1465 Richmond St., London, ON N6G 2M1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-519-432-8353
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Elliott S, McCloskey ML, Johnson SL, Mena NZ, Swindle T, Bellows LL. Food Photography as a Tool to Assess Type, Quantity, and Quality of Foods in Parent-Packed Lunches for Preschoolers. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2021; 53:164-173. [PMID: 33189584 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/14/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Explore using food photography to assess packed lunches in a university-based Early Childhood Center and contextualize these photographs through parent interviews. METHODS An explanatory sequential design was used. Packed lunches were photographed to assess the type and quantity of foods offered and consumed by Child and Adult Food Care Program components (fruit, vegetable, grain, and protein) and quality of foods offered using the Healthy Meal Index. Parent interviews aimed to understand motivations and behaviors related to packing lunch. RESULTS Data were collected on 401 lunches. Only 16.2% of lunches met all Child and Adult Food Care Program requirements. Most lunches included fruit (84%) and grains (82%), whereas fewer included vegetables (44%). Portion sizes were large, especially for grains (2.7 ± 1.5 servings). In interviews (n = 24), parents expressed tension between offering healthful items and foods they knew their child would eat, as well as concern about children going hungry. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Food photography is a feasible methodology to capture parent-packed lunches for preschoolers and may have utility in nutrition education, particularly related to age-appropriate portion sizes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Savanah Elliott
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Morgan L McCloskey
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Susan L Johnson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
| | - Noereem Z Mena
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Taren Swindle
- Department of Family and Preventive Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR
| | - Laura L Bellows
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bunten A, Porter L, Burgess-Allen J, Howell-Jones R, Jackson J, Ward D, Staples V, Staples P, Rowthorn H, Saei A, van Schaik P, Tydeman E, Blair P, Hugueniot O, Gold N, Chadborn T. Using behavioural insights to reduce sugar in primary school children's packed lunches in derby; A cluster randomised controlled trial. Appetite 2020; 157:104987. [PMID: 33039508 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2020.104987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Children's packed lunches contain more sugar than school-provided meals. Interventions to improve the provision of healthier packed lunches have modest effects on lunch contents. This cluster randomised controlled trial tested an intervention to encourage healthier provision of packed lunches by parents of primary school children in Derby. Schools were randomised to intervention (n = 8) or control (n = 9) using blocked random allocation. In the intervention group, parents of children who brought packed lunches to school in years 3-6 (age 7-11 years) received three bundles of materials (including packed lunch planner, shopping list, information on sugar content of popular lunchbox items and suggestions for healthier swap alternatives) in bookbags/lunchboxes over a 4-week period. Control parents received no materials. Photos of lunchbox contents were taken at baseline, immediately post-intervention and at three-month follow-up. A parental survey aimed to assess capability, opportunity and motivation for packing a healthier lunchbox. No intervention effects were observed for primary outcomes (presence and number of sugary snacks or chilled sugary desserts). The intervention had a significant impact on one secondary outcome (increased number of healthier "swap" items suggested in intervention materials) immediately post-intervention, but this effect had disappeared at three-month follow-up. No intervention effects were found on survey variables. Parent comments revealed that materials were either received positively (as they reinforced existing behaviours) or negatively (as they were not perceived to be helpful or appropriate). The results of this study suggest that providing educational materials and resources to parents of primary school children in Derby was not sufficient to increase provision of healthier packed lunches. Future research should investigate how behavioural science can support families to improve the nutritional content of primary school children's lunchboxes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Bunten
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Lucy Porter
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK.
| | | | - Rebecca Howell-Jones
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | | | - Derek Ward
- Medical School, University of Lincoln, Brayford Way, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, LN6 7TS, UK; Public Health Division, Adult Care and Community Wellbeing, Lincolnshire County Council, County Offices, Newland, Lincoln, LN1 1YL, UK
| | - Vicki Staples
- University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Paul Staples
- University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB, UK
| | - Harriet Rowthorn
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK; Department of Psychology, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK
| | - Ayoub Saei
- Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Paul van Schaik
- School of Social Sciences and Law, Teesside University, Campus Heart, Southfield Rd, Middlesbrough, TS1 3BX, UK
| | - Elizabeth Tydeman
- Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Penny Blair
- Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Orla Hugueniot
- Public Health England, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Natalie Gold
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| | - Tim Chadborn
- Public Health England Behavioural Insights, Wellington House, 133-155 Waterloo Road, London, SE1 8UG, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
O'Rourke B, Shwed A, Bruner B, Ferguson K. What's for Lunch? Investigating the Experiences, Perceptions, and Habits of Parents and School Lunches: A Scoping Review. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2020; 90:812-819. [PMID: 32820557 DOI: 10.1111/josh.12944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2019] [Revised: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Research indicates home-packed school lunches are lower in nutritional value compared with school-provided meals. Due to the lack of a school lunch program, most of what Canadian children consume during the school day is determined by parents and caregivers through packed lunches. Despite this, little research has focused on the school lunch packing habits and attitudes of parents. The purpose of this scoping review was to improve understanding of parental perceptions, experiences, and habits with respect to home-packed school lunches. METHODS We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed and gray literature. We reviewed only studies published from January 2000 to January 2019 with a focus on parents' lunch packing habits for their school-aged children. RESULTS The review included 7 studies, with articles from the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada. The studies identified 6 themes influencing parental decisions regarding what to pack in their child's lunch-school environment, food as fuel, convenience, child's influence, cost, and the lunch experience. CONCLUSIONS The decisions that influence what is packed in a school lunch are complex and indicate the need for support. Parents, schools, districts, and government policymakers need to work collaboratively to improve the healthiness of home-packed school lunches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brianne O'Rourke
- School of Physical and Health Education, 100 College Drive, North Bay, Ontario P1B 817, Canada
| | - Alanna Shwed
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, 100 College Drive, North Bay, Ontario P1B 8l7, Canada
| | - Brenda Bruner
- School of Physical and Health Education, Nipissing University, 100 College Drive, North Bay, Ontario P1B 8l7, Canada
| | - Kristen Ferguson
- Schulich School of Education, Nipissing University, 100 College Drive, North Bay, Ontario P1B 8L7, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ma Z, Hample D. Modeling Parental Influence on Teenagers' Food Consumption: An Analysis Using the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating (FLASHE) Survey. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2018; 50:1005-1014. [PMID: 30414664 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2018.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate (1) how perceived parental control, perceived parental modeling, and parent-teen co-decision making are associated with teenagers' consumption of fruits and vegetables as well as sugary drinks and less healthful food; and (2) whether self-efficacy mediates this relationship. DESIGN Cross-sectional survey. PARTICIPANTS A total of 1,657 adolescents aged 12-17years. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Perceived parental control, perceived parental modeling, parent-teen co-decision making, self-efficacy, and consumption of fruits and vegetables as well as sugary drinks and less healthful food. ANALYSIS Ordinary least-squares regressions and mediation analyses. RESULTS After controlling for teenagers' self-efficacy, perceived parental control was not significantly associated with teenagers' fruit and vegetable consumption but it was negatively related to teenagers' consumption of sugary drinks and less nutrient-dense food. Perceived parental modeling had a positive correlation to teenagers' fruit and vegetable consumption and a negative relationship to their consumption of sugary drinks and less healthful food. Parent-teen co-decision making regarding teenagers' food consumption emerged as a positive predictor for teenagers' fruit and vegetable consumption but not for that of sugary drinks and foods with little nutritional value after controlling for self-efficacy. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Findings from this study demonstrated that perceived parental behaviors were related to teenagers' nutrition intakes. Not exerting too much control and having teenagers participate in the decision-making process could help teenagers eat more healthily. Furthermore, providing a positive role model for teenagers can be an effective strategy to encourage teenagers to eat better.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zexin Ma
- Department of Communication and Journalism, Oakland University, Rochester, MI.
| | - Dale Hample
- Department of Communication, University of Maryland, College Park, MD
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chapman-Novakofski K. Mothers, Children, and Eating: Past, Present, and Future. JOURNAL OF NUTRITION EDUCATION AND BEHAVIOR 2018; 50:330-331. [PMID: 29631704 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneb.2018.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
|