[Municipal School Nutrition Councils in Santa Catarina, Brazil: characterization and performance profile]

The aim of this study is to assess Municipal School Nutrition Councils (CAEs) of the Brazilian School Nutrition Program (PNAE) in the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of municipalities in the state (n = 152; 52%). CAE presidents were interviewed and asked about the counselor profile, attributions performed and the relation of CAEs with other local councils. Poisson regression analysis was conducted to obtain unadjusted and adjusted prevalence ratios and the adjusted model adopted a hierarchic approach. The majority of councils analyzed their accounting reports, monitored resources and strived for quality of the CAEs at all levels. They coordinated the storage of food, participated in establishing the menu, monitored the purchasing of food and had an internal control system. However, only 22.4% carried out all their attributions once or more per year. A positive association was found between an adequate performance of the CAE and relations with other local councils. The awareness of the CAEs, as well as a stimulus to acting jointly with other councils and actors involved with food and nutrition security, are essential to ensure the right to healthy and adequate nutrition at school.