The healthiness of New Zealand school food environments: a national survey

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the healthiness of New Zealand school food environments. MethodsIn 2016, primary and secondary schools were invited to complete a cross‐sectional questionnaire. School nutrition policies were analysed using an adapted Wellness School Assessment Tool. Canteen menus were analysed using the National Food and Beverage Classification System, and a sample of menus (n=54) were validated using fieldworker observations. ResultsIn total, 819 schools (response rate 33%) participated. Forty per cent had a nutrition policy, and those analysed (n=145) lacked comprehensiveness and contained weak statements. Seventy‐one per cent sold food and beverages during the school day. The school food service offered mainly unhealthy items. Many schools (81%) used food and beverages for fundraising with 90% of them using ‘less healthy’ items. Most had vegetable gardens (80%), included nutrition education in the curriculum (90%), were not sponsored by food and beverage companies (94%) and did not have commercial advertising on school grounds (97%). ConclusionNew Zealand school nutrition policies are weak, and canteen and fundraising items are largely unhealthy, which undermine other positive efforts. Implications for public healthThis study provides evidence of unhealthy school food environments and supports the need for stronger national‐level policy.