THE INFLUENCE OF THE NATIONAL SCHOOL FEEDING PROGRAM ON FOOD AND NUTRITION EDUCATION AND ON COMBATING OBESITY AND MALNUTRITION IN PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

This article aimed to evaluate the influence of the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) on the promotion of healthy eating, Food and Nutrition Education (FNE), and the prevention of obesity and malnutrition among public school students. This is a descriptive field study with quantitative and qualitative approaches, conducted in the municipality of Paraisópolis, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The sample consisted of 650 students aged between 6 and 12 years enrolled in four municipal schools. Anthropometric data on weight and height were collected to classify nutritional status through Body Mass Index for age, according to World Health Organization (WHO) parameters. In addition, a qualitative analysis of school menus and meal environments was carried out using an adapted IQ COSAN tool. The results showed a predominance of eutrophy among students (66.2%), while 28.1% presented excess weight and 5.7% were classified as underweight. A higher prevalence of obesity was observed among adolescents. The analyzed menus complied with PNAE guidelines, presenting predominance of fresh and minimally processed foods, as well as absence of ultra-processed foods and sweets. It is concluded that PNAE plays an important role in promoting healthy eating and Food and Nutrition Education within the school environment, contributing to the development of healthy eating habits and prevention of nutritional disorders.