A Model for School Food Policy: How Schools Can Fight Childhood Obesity by Changing Children's Food Preferences
Date
2012-11
Authors
McGee, Jamie
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Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to create a model for school food policy to be used by school food administrators to increase student preference for healthy foods. Methods: A preliminary model for school food policy was developed based on literature and research on the topic of school food policy from which categories and survey questions were drawn. Surveys were sent out to 130 experts on the topic of school food policy, and 43 participants returned the surveys. The preliminary model was revised based on the responses of the survey participants to create the model for school food policy. Results: The preliminary model closely reflected the final model, except in the area of competitive foods. A higher than expected percent of survey participants responded that they would recommend selling competitive foods. Conclusion: A model for school food policy should include the following four elements: Farm to School, School Gardens, Competitive Foods, and Kitchens and Cafeterias.
Description
An Applied Research Project Submitted to the Department of Political Science, Texas State University-San Marcos, in Partial Fulfillment for the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Public Administration, Fall 2012.
Keywords
school lunch, school gardens, competitive foods, farm to school, childhood obesity, Public Administration
Citation
McGee, J. (2012). A model for school food policy: How schools can fight childhood obesity by changing children's food preferences. Masters of Public Administration, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas.