NUTRITIONAL ASSESSMENT OF PRIMARY SCHOOL MENUS IN ISTANBUL

Authors : Bahar Yalçın

Pages : 75-85

View : 21 | Download : 18

Publication Date : 2025-02-28

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Background: Adequate and balanced nutrition in school-age children is highly important due to its association with growth, development and academic success. This study was conducted to assess the food groups and nutrient contents of the lunch menus in some primary schools in Istanbul. Methods: The study was conducted in İstanbul and included 15 randomly selected private primary schools. Each school’s one-month (20-day) lunch menus were assessed in terms of food groups, energy and nutrient contents. Nutrition Information System (BEBIS) 8.2 package program was used to calculate energy and nutrients. Türkiye Dietary Guidelines (TUBER) 2022 reference intake ranges were used to determine whether energy and nutrients were sufficient. Results: In the study, it was determined that all nutrients, except for calcium, met one-third of the recommended intake levels. The average saturated fat and sodium content of the menus exceeded both TUBER and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommendations. When the menus were evaluated according to food groups, it was determined that the grain and meat groups were at sufficient levels, while the vegetable, fruit and dairy groups were found to be insufficient. Conclusion: As a result of the research, it was determined that school lunch menus were inadequate in terms of some nutrients and food groups that should be consumed daily. In order to support the healthy growth and development of children, it is of great importance to expand and develop school lunch programs and improve the nutritional content and quality of these programs.
Keywords : Çocuk, Menü planlama, Beslenme