School Nutrition Stakeholders Find Utility in MealSim: An Agent-Based Model.

Area of Science:

• Agent-based modeling in public health and nutrition.
• Simulation modeling for food systems analysis.
• Stakeholder engagement in model development.

Background:

• Agent-based models (ABMs) offer a novel approach to simulating complex systems like school meal programs.
• Understanding stakeholder perceptions is crucial for refining simulation tools for practical application.
• Reducing food waste in schools is a significant public health and environmental concern.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gather feedback from school nutrition stakeholders on the MealSim agent-based model.
• To inform the refinement and future applications of MealSim for school lunch programs.
• To assess the perceived utility and applicability of MealSim in reducing food waste.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing online discussion groups with school nutrition stakeholders across the US.
• Deductive approach followed by inductive analysis of discussion group transcripts.
• Involved 28 school nutrition professionals providing feedback on the MealSim model.

Main Results:

• Stakeholders valued MealSim's customizability but suggested incorporating additional school meal system factors (e.g., staff supervision).
• High perceived utility for personnel training and policy advocacy, though perceived as more representative of elementary than high schools.
• Provided recommendations for user training and technical assistance for MealSim implementation.

Conclusions:

• Despite unfamiliarity with agent-based models, MealSim was perceived as a valuable tool by school nutrition stakeholders.
• Incorporating stakeholder feedback is essential for aligning MealSim with user needs and improving system estimations.
• The study highlights the potential of simulation models to support decision-making and resource management in school nutrition programs.