Evaluation of a school-based initiative to improve preferences for fruit and vegetables amongst primary school children in Forth Valley, Scotland.

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Reference

Clarke AM, Ruxton CHS, Hetherington L, O’Neil S, McMillan B (2009). Nutrition & Food Science, 39: 118-127.

Status

Published

Abstract

Purpose: Fruit and vegetable (F&V) intakes amongst Scottish schoolchildren are lower than recommended. This intervention combined F&V with peer-modelling and rewards to influence consumption of F&V.

Design/methodology: A school-based initiative was implemented in 19 primary schools. The evaluation of 8 schools (n=1477 pupils aged 4.5 to 12 years) is reported. The 3-week Intervention included free F&V (80g portions), a peer-modelling video and a series of small rewards followed by a 4-6 week Maintenance phase during which time free F&V continued. Questionnaires were completed at baseline (T1) and up to 2 months after the end of the Maintenance phase (T2) to assess changes in F&V consumption.

Findings: At T2, children in years 1 and 2 consumed F&V at school more often compared with T1, and ate a greater number of portions each time. There were no significant differences in home consumption. The picture was similar for children in Years 3-7 with no change in the reported number of portions.

Originality: Few behavioural interventions have been carried out in the public health arena to increase fruit and vegetable consumption.

Conclusion: A peer-modelling intervention significantly increased consumption of F&V at school, while home consumption remained stable.

Date created: 30th Jun 2009

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