Basic school pupils’ food purchases during mid-morning break in urban Ghanaian schools
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Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
PLoS ONE
Abstract
Background
Unhealthy food vending can expose children to malnutrition and other diet-related challenges such as obesity. This study sought to describe types and sources of food in basic
schools in urban Accra, and to describe food purchases by pupils.
Methods
This was a cross-sectional study of five basic schools (3 public; and 2 private) and 644 pupils in
the Ga-East Municipality in Ghana. Checklists were used to document available sources of
food during school hours. Pupils were intercepted after making purchases during break time and the type, cost, and sources of foods purchased were documented. The energy content of
foods was read from labels when available or estimated using the Ghana Food Composition database when unlabelled. Frequencies and crosstabs were used to compare food type
by source and school type.
Results
Foods were purchased from the school canteen, school store, private stores, and ‘table-top’
vendors. Meals were most frequently purchased (38%) although single purchases were
sweetened drinks, savory snacks, and confectioneries. About 53% of retailers located
within the schools sold relatively healthier food options. Similar foods with comparable
energy content were purchased within and outside of school.
Conclusions
Basic schools in urban Ghana provide ready access to energy-dense food options, which
are purchased by pupils both within and outside of school premises. Timely interventions
inclusive of school food policies can encourage healthier diets among pupils.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
food purchases, Basic school pupils’, mid-morning break
Citation
Ogum-Alangea D, Aryeetey RNO, Gray HL, Laar AK, Adanu RMK (2020) Basic school pupils’ food purchases during mid-morning break in urban Ghanaian schools. PLoS ONE 15(9): e0238308. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal. pone.0238308