A cluster randomized factorial trial of school-lunch salad bars and marketing on elementary students' objectively measured fruit and vegetable consumption.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Schools in the United States play a crucial role in promoting healthy eating habits. Despite numerous public health efforts, children's consumption of fruits and vegetables (FVs) still fall short of recommended amounts. Advocates have promoted school lunch salad bars as an effective strategy to increase primary students' FV consumption, but rigorous research has lagged behind their efforts. This study evaluated the effectiveness of introducing school lunch salad bars, FV marketing, and the combination of both on elementary students' objectively measured fresh FV selection and consumption.

Methods

A cluster-randomized factorial trial was conducted among 13 elementary schools from 12 public school districts participating in the U.S. National School Lunch Program wit

SUBMITTER: Adams MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12105326 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature