Using local family farm products for school feeding programmes: effect on school menus

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the effect of the use of food products from family farms on school menus of the school feeding program (SFP) of a municipality in Southern Brazil. Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative content analysis was carried out of 16 key informant interviews involved in the SFP, or in agriculture production related to SFP planning, development and supply. The resulting categories were used to construct a quantitative analysis protocol for school menus for three years both prior to and after (n=130 days) procurement of the SFP with food from family farms. The studied variables were the presence (yes/no) of vegetables, fruits, legumes and concentrated foods. Monthly frequency and contrast of proportions were calculated for each variable during the years studied. Findings – The interviewees recognized that the proximity between food production and the school increased the variety of fresh, natural and organic foods in school menus. The direct supply of the SFP with foods from local family farms resulted in a significant increase (p<0.05) in the frequency of vegetables, fruits and legumes in school menus as well as a progressive reduction in concentrated foods. Originality/value – The design of food and agriculture policy increases the availability of healthy foods in school menus and has beneficial results for promoting healthy meals in schools.