Promoting and competing factors of adequate and healthy food in the school food environment

This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the food environment of public schools regarding identified healthy eating competing and promoting factors. A quantitative descriptive and observational study was conducted in 14 public schools in a municipality in Rio de Janeiro and their surrounding areas. Photographic records and field diaries were adopted for this purpose. Food-related murals, vegetable gardens, school cafeterias, and teachers sitting along during meals were considered components that promote a healthy food environment. Competing components were snacks brought by students, canteens, informal food sale and packaging, and ultra-processed foods circulating in schools. A 500-meter radius from the school gate was considered to characterize outlets in the school surroundings. The foods sold were categorized per the NOVA classification. The study identified a predominance of healthy eating-promoting factors against competing factors. However, we identified available ultra-processed foods inside schools, and their availability prevailed in the school’s surrounding areas.

Key words:
School meals; Ultra-processed foods; Food social space