A cross-sectional study to determine the energy density and nutritional quality of primary-school children’s lunchboxes
Bibliographic Data
Objective: The present study describes the energy content of primary-school children’s lunchboxes and the proportion of lunchbox foods considered discretionary. Subgroup analyses by sex, socio-economic status, age and weight status were undertaken. Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Mean kilojoule content, number of items and categorisation of foods and drinks in lunchboxes as ‘everyday’ (healthy) or discretionary (sometimes) foods were assessed via a valid and reliable lunchbox observational audit. Setting: Twelve Catholic primary schools (Kindergarten–Grade 6) located in the Hunter region of New South Wales, Australia. Participants: Kindergarten to Grade 6 primary-school students. Results: In total, 2143 children (57 %) had parental consent to have their lunchboxes observed. School lunchboxes contained a mean of 2748 kJ, of which 61·2 % of energy was from foods consistent with the Australian Dietary Guidelines and 38·8 % of energy was discretionary foods. The proportion of lunchboxes containing only healthy foods was 12 %. Children in Kindergarten–Grade 2 packed more servings of ‘everyday’ foods (3·32 v . 2·98, P v . 33·8 %, P v . 2544 kJ, P = 0·03). Conclusions: Foods packed within school lunchboxes may contribute to energy imbalance. The development of school policies and population-based strategies to support parents overcome barriers to packing healthy lunchboxes are warranted
Audit · Cross-sectional study · Disadvantaged · Environmental health · Observational study · Population · Breastfeeding Practices and Influences · Child Nutrition and Feeding Issues · Demography · Medicine · Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet · Psychology · Pediatrics
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| Citations per year | 1.86 |
|---|---|
| Citation span | 2019 - 2025 (7) |
| Highly cited | No |