Abstract

CARNEIRO, Carla Sofia et al. Description and Critical Analysis of the School Fruit Scheme in Portugal. Nutrícias [online]. 2014, n.20, pp.06-11. ISSN 2182-7230.

A healthy diet is a determinant factor for health promotion and protection. Fruit and vegetables, as a part of a healthy diet, seem to play an important protective role in a large number of chronic diseases. However, several studies show that, in children, the fruit and vegetable intake is below the recommended levels. The main objective of this work is to describe and critically analyze the Portuguese strategy for the promotion of fruit and vegetables consumption at school environment, the School Fruit Scheme. This program is co-financed by European Commission for fruit and vegetables acquisition and supplying for school-aged children, attending public schools, including two different types of measures: free fruit and vegetables supply and accompanying measures to promote consumption. Several studies suggest that these programs are effective at increasing fruit and vegetables intake in school-aged children, contributing also to the development and improvement of health benefits’ knowledge. It can also be an efficient strategy to reduce the social inequalities in health. The investment in these kind of programs as a public health measure to fight obesity and low fruit and vegetables intake is thus justified.

Keywords : School Fruit Scheme; Fruit and vegetables; Children; School; Public health.

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