Public policy to promote healthy nutrition in schools: Views of policymakers

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to identify policy options to support nutrition promotion in New Zealand primary schools. In achieving this aim, the study sought to identify framing by policymakers regarding child diet and obesity; views on the role of schools in nutrition promotion; policy options and degree of support for these options. Issue framing by policymakers and policy option support are important considerations in policy design. Setting: New Zealand policymakers within the health and education policy community. Method: A qualitative study involving 16 semi-structured interviews with New Zealand policymakers. Results: Informants identified multiple drivers and complex causation of childhood obesity. Informants supported the role of schools in promoting nutrition, but recognized that issues external to schools such as poverty and availability of food placed limits on the effectiveness of actions within schools. Most informants agreed state policy was required across settings to encourage and support school nutrition promotion; however, there were some differences expressed in the degree to which state policy should regulate food options and marketing. Conclusion: New Zealand policymakers identify schools as a legitimate focus for policy development and commonly identify environmental contributions to child diet and obesity causation. This suggests a starting point for further policy deliberation and offers the possibility of further cross-sector policy development. The study provides an example for research elsewhere, and for international comparison.