Choice Architecture in Appalachian High Schools: Evaluating and Improving Cafeteria Environments.

ABSTRACT: School meals are a primary source of nutrition for many adolescents. Determining factors that influence the selection of various foods can provide insight on strategies to improve students' cafeteria choices. This evaluation and observation was conducted at three Appalachian high schools to assess the cafeteria environment. The study developed and implemented an assessment tool created using principles of choice architecture and behavioral economics building on the work of the Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs (BEN Center). The assessment tool scored eight components of the lunchroom-the exterior, hot serving area, cold serving area, salad bar, beverage area, payment station, dining area and grab-n-go, where a higher score equals healthier components offer

SUBMITTER: Olfert MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6356853 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature