Did school food and nutrient-based standards in England impact on 11–12y olds nutrient intake at lunchtime and in total diet? Repeat cross-sectional study
In September 2009, middle and secondary schools in England were required to comply with food and nutrient-based standards for school food. The researchers examined the impact of this policy change on children’s lunchtime and total dietary intake.They undertook repeat cross-sectional surveys in six Northumberland middle schools in 1999–2000 and 2009–10. Dietary data were collected from 11–12 y olds (n = 298 in 1999–2000; n = 215 in 2009–10). Children completed two consecutive 3-day food diaries, each followed by an interview. Linear mixed effect models examined the effect of year, lunch type and level of socio-economic deprivation on children’s mean total dietary intake.