Organic school food policies are supportive for healthier eating behaviours – results from an observational study in Danish schools

Summary

Purpose – The purpose of this study was to examine whether organic food intervention strategies in Danish school meal systems can support the development of healthier eating patterns among pupils.
Design/methodology/approach – This paper investigates the interrelation between the two trends: healthy eating and organic consumption. The study was undertaken among school food coordinators through a web-based questionnaire in selected Danish public primary schools. Food strategies of “organic” schools were compared to those of “non organic” schools. The questionnaire explored the attitudes, policies/intentions and actions in relation to organic and healthy foods served in the schools.
Findings – Results indicate that organic food intervention strategies can be supportive for strategies to increase the healthiness of school eating patterns.
Social implications – The municipalities and other public bodies increasingly recognize their responsibility to support sustainable food production methods, such as organic agriculture, by choosing this kind of foods in public institutions.
Originality/value – This paper provides the organic food strategies in schools that may increase the availability of healthier food options and promote healthy eating habits for pupils.