Healthy Food Choices: Can Schools Improve Their Grades?
Vol. 7, Issue 3; August 17, 2009
Report Highlights
Americans are increasingly worried about the problem of childhood obesity in their communities (see Vol. 7, Issue 2). School food and drinks, whether in cafeterias or in vending machines, can contribute to diets high in calories and fat. Although federal and state programs encourage schools to provide healthy choices, menus are managed locally. Very little is known about parents' views of the foods available in 2009 at their children's schools. What parents think is important: in September, Congress will consider the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act, which funds school breakfast and lunch programs.
Report Highlights:
- Nationwide, 1 out of 3 parents give public schools an "A" for healthy food choices
- 1 out of 8 parents give schools a "D" or "F" for healthy food choices.
- Parents of primary school students give better grades for healthy food choices than parents of secondary school studen
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This Report includes research findings from the C.S. Mott Children's National Poll on Children's Health, which do not represent the opinions of the investigators or the opinions of the University of Michigan. The University of Michigan reserves all rights over this material.
