Healthier Snacks in Maine High Schools
Author Information
Author(s): Davee Anne-Marie MS, RD, Whatley Blum Janet E ScD, Devore Rachel L, Beaudoin Christina M PhD, Kaley Lori A MS, MSB, Leiter Janet L MS, RD, Wigand Debra A MEd
Primary Institution: University of Southern Maine
Hypothesis
Can making healthier snacks and beverages available in vending machines and à la carte programs in Maine public high schools reduce childhood overweight?
Conclusion
The intervention successfully improved the nutrition environment in Maine public high schools, particularly in vending machines.
Supporting Evidence
- Four schools made changes to their nutrition environment while three served as controls.
- Approximately 80% of snack items and 54% of beverage items did not meet the nutrition guidelines before the intervention.
- More than 50 Maine school districts expressed interest in the intervention after its announcement.
Takeaway
This study shows that schools can offer healthier snacks and drinks, which can help kids eat better and stay healthy.
Methodology
A quasi-experimental design was used with seven public high schools, where four implemented nutrition changes and three served as controls.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from self-reported data and the lack of randomization in school selection.
Limitations
Sales data for vending machines were proprietary and could not be accurately assessed.
Participant Demographics
Students from seven public high schools in Maine, with an average enrollment of 800 per school.
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