Food choices of healthy school-age children

This study examined the food choices of children 10 to 12 years of age to assess their knowledge of healthful food items. The subjects were 127 fifth and sixth grade boys and girls from public and private school systems. Data were gathered in the classroom. Students were asked to select which one of each of two dozen pairs of food items is better for their health. Results of an item analysis indicated that the majority of children were informed concerning healthful food choices, but they were unable to consistently select the healthier item. The findings suggest a need for additional educational programs for school-age children in the area of nutrition.