Food Environment Assessment in Primary Schools Before the Implementation of Mexico's 2025 School Food Guidelines: A...

Childhood obesity and being overweight represent a global public health challenge; the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and ultra-processed foods (UPFs) contributes to this problem. In Mexico, public health policies have been implemented to improve school food environments.

To assess the school food environment before the implementation of the guidelines for the preparation, distribution, and sale of food and beverages (SFGs) in three primary schools in Mexico City.

A cross-sectional mixed method study was conducted, including structured non-participatory observation of selling points outside and inside of schools, and availability of drinking fountains and lunchboxes contents. A food waste audit assessment was performed to identify the most frequently consumed products, main ingredients, front-of-package labels, and colorants. Additionally, 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with school authorities, teachers, and food vendors.

SSBs and UPFs selling points were observed outside and inside in public schools, while in private schools, only inside, with use of delivery food apps. Public schools lacked functional drinking fountains. A total of 345 food waste items were collected across the schools, of which 46.3% were SSBs and 53.7% were UPFs. The main ingredient was sugar (15.6%), the principal front-of-package was excess sugar (37.5%), and the most frequently used colorants were red 40 (25.1%). Interview participants reported awareness of the SFGs; however, they identified barriers such as resistance from parents and students and the economic dependence of school cooperatives on UPFs sales.

These findings highlight structural and economic challenges for the effective implementation of public policies promoting healthier school food environments.