Win-win food system approach to improve children’s nutrition: A pilot study in São Paulo, Brazil

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the development of a healthy eating habits intervention in a school and to evaluate parents’ acceptability of this initiative.

Design/methodology/approach: This exploratory study was conducted between February and March 2022 in a public school serving children aged 1–4 years in São Paulo, Brazil. The school acted as an educational distribution channel. Interviews with school staff helped co-design four educational videos with seasonal recipes. These were matched with boxes of local vegetables (that would otherwise have been wasted by a local vegetable grower) and delivered to parents (matching ingredients to recipes). Qualitative analysis was conducted to evaluate parental acceptability of the intervention.

Findings: The intervention was well-received. All parents liked the videos, 74% used most of the fruits and vegetables provided and 83% tried the recipes. However, 30% suggested reducing the amount of leafy greens, as their children tended to avoid them.

Originality/value: This pilot intervention was feasible and appreciated by parents, indicating potential for adaptation in similar educational contexts. It contributes to the literature by testing a co-designed, school-based food education strategy in a low-income setting and emphasises the importance of integrating school and home environments to foster healthier eating habits. Further research is needed to assess long-term impacts and scalability.