What are New Zealand children eating at school? A content analysis of 'consumed versus unconsumed' food groups in a lunch-box survey

Eating patterns among school-aged children continue to be highly reliant on frequent consumption of food items that are perceived to have low or poor nutritional value. This has become a serious public health concern. In this New Zealand-based study, primary school children's food consumption behaviour was investigated via two sources: a cross-sectional survey of school foods from 927 lunch-boxes, and the content analysis of unconsumed foods deposited in provided food waste disposal bins. The results indicated that most lunch-boxes contained an over-representation of the food groups high in fat, sodium and sugar, and an under-representation of fruit and vegetables. In this study, the measured high proportions of unconsumed healthy foods (mainly fruit and vegetables), in comparison to unhealthy foods, being thrown away by school-children were of concern. The results indicate that schools and parents should pursue initiatives that support healthy diets for children as best practice.