Do primary and secondary schools promote a healthy lifestyle? portrait of food and physical activities offered in quebec schools (Canada)

Background and purpose: Healthy eating habits and active lifestyle promote the normal physical and psychocognitive development of children as well as constitute a long-term preventive measure in reducing the risk of weight-related issues. Schools have been recognized as having a major influence on the lifestyle of youth. Significance: In the fall of 2006, the Quebec government launched a government action plan, whose purpose was to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent weight-related issues. By describing the food offered in school cafeterias and the opportunities provided to students for engaging in physical activity, this study provides insights for stakeholders in promoting healthy lifestyles in schools. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2008–2009 with a representative sample of 207 French-speaking primary and secondary schools in Quebec (Canada). Food available in the cafeteria and vending machines was observed directly and systematically by trained research assistants. Self-administered questionnaires inventorying the physical activities offered as well as the school's infrastructure and equipment were also completed. Findings: Most of the schools had eliminated sodas but were still offering sugar-sweetened beverages. About one third of public schools and half of private secondary schools offered cold-cut dishes, stuffed pastry, or a fried food on their daily menus. Individual activities were less available than collective ones during recesses and intramural, after-school, and interschool activities. Conclusion/Recommendations: Progress has been made but efforts are still needed to meet the dietary guidelines in school cafeterias and to diversify opportunities for physical activities to satisfy a larger number of youth.