Attitudes, Beliefs and Promotion of Fruits and Vegetables by Multicultural Students from an Urban Middle School in Worcester, MA

Abstract

ObjectiveFruit and vegetable (FV) intake is inversely and significantly associated with risk of overweight and obesity and associated chronic diseases, even in adolescence. Yet, evidence indicates children fall short of recommended intake levels, with a marked decrease in FV intake from childhood to adolescence. Furthermore, there are disparities in FV intake, as is evidenced by lower consumption rates in low‐income populations and by racial and ethnic minorities. The purpose of this formative study was to examine the attitudes and beliefs towards FV of multicultural students and to engage students in identifying strategies that would motivate increased fruit and vegetable intake.MethodsSemi‐structured focus groups (n=6) were conducted with a convenience sample of racially and ethnically diverse grade 7 students, from a middle school with an 87% free and reduced lunch participation rate (2014), in Worcester MA. Individual and small group activities were integrated throughout the focus groups to facilitate engagement and meaningful discussions. Each focus group was voice recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed through inductive thematic analysis, using NVivo11.ResultsDespite an awareness and knowledge of the health benefits of FV, many students reported that they were more likely to ask for and consume ‘junk’ food than to seek or desire FV. Emphasis of health benefits and consequences were indicated as strong motivators for considering consumption of a healthy diet, which students equated to a balance between FV and less healthful foods. Overall fruits were preferred to vegetables, especially fruits available in the summer. When FV were discussed favorably, students focused on produce specific to their culture and home use. Within their households, students reported that produce was often incorporated into their cultural dishes; although mainstream vegetables were also served as side dishes. The most common strategies students suggested and parents used to encourage FV intake included ‘hiding’ vegetables in favorite dishes and use of coercion or bribing. Parental modeling seemed to be important, with students noting both negative and positive influences on their food choices. Students were fully aware their parents were concerned with food costs and they expressed this often affected what was purchased, including the type of FV in their households. Promotional ideas to motivate increased FV intake among their peers, centered on improvement of the taste of vegetables they consume at school. Learning to prepare and sampling tasty vegetable recipes were identified as attractive activities.ConclusionOverall, students from culturally diverse backgrounds identified that FV intake is influenced by personal beliefs and preferences that are often culture‐centric, interpersonal relationships (especially with parents), and environmental limitations. Cooking lessons and demonstrations that include ethnic FV and incorporate student suggestions and taste‐testing are promising strategies for motivating increased FV intake by adolescents.Support or Funding InformationFunding Source: University of Massachusetts Amherst Center for Food and the Environment and US Department of Agriculture.