The goal of San Diego State University's Project M-SPAN (Middle School Physical Activity and Nutrition) was to evaluate whether environmental changes at school improve dietary and physical activity habits of students. Twelve of the 24 middle schools (grades 6-8) in the study received a two-year intervention. Intervention schools, from eight districts, had an average population of 994 students. Student demographics included 38% non-white and 39% eligible for free or reduced meals (an indicator of SES). Schools received incentives, including cafeteria equipment, to participate.
Target food sources were Type A cafeteria meals, a la carte items, school stores, and bag lunches. Nutrition intervention components included 14 hours of training for kitchen/cafeteria staff on preparing healthier meals. Project staff conducted bi-weekly site visits to cafeterias to monitor program objectives. Vendors were lobbied to supply cafeterias and student stores with lower-fat foods and ingredients. Principals, Food Service district directors, cafeteria managers, and student store advisors met quarterly with project staff to set policy and form action plans. Parents learned of project activities via school newsletters, PTA meetings, and open house nights. College interns and middle school students conducted bi-monthly taste-tests and bi weekly healthy lunch raffle contests to promote intervention objectives.
At baseline, students consumed an average of 25.3 grams of fat per day while at school (11.1g type A lunch, 7.1g a la carte, 6.5g bag lunch, 0.6g student store). This presentation will provide process and outcome data on intervention effects.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to describe the nutritional quality of foods consumed by middle school students while on campus
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Food and Nutrition
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.