Does the school fruit and vegetable scheme improve children's diet? A non-randomised controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Public Health Nutrition
• Pediatric Nutrition
• Dietary Interventions

Background:

• Childhood obesity and poor dietary habits are significant public health concerns.
• School-based interventions are a key strategy for promoting healthy eating in children.
• The School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme (SFVS) aimed to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among pupils.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the dietary impact of the School Fruit and Vegetable Scheme (SFVS).
• To assess changes in fruit and vegetable intake and nutrient consumption among young children participating in the SFVS.

Main Methods:

• A non-randomised controlled trial involving 3,703 children aged 4-6 years in infant and primary schools.
• Intervention involved providing one portion of fruit or vegetable daily to children.
• Dietary intake, including fruit, vegetables, and key nutrients, was measured.

Main Results:

• The SFVS was associated with a significant increase in fruit intake at three months for reception and year 1 pupils.
• This positive effect on fruit intake decreased by seven months and returned to baseline when children were no longer eligible for the scheme.
• No significant changes in vegetable consumption or overall intake of energy, fat, or salt were observed; minor increases in carotene and vitamin C were noted.

Conclusions:

• The SFVS effectively promoted increased fruit consumption in the short term.
• The scheme's impact on fruit intake diminished over time and was dependent on continued participation.
• The overall impact on vegetable intake and broader nutrient profiles was limited.