Effects of Longer Seated Lunch Time on Food Consumption and Waste in Elementary and Middle School–age Children

Abstract

Key Points Question What is the effect of longer seated lunch time on children’s consumption and waste of lunches that were prepared according to the National School Lunch Program nutrition standards? Findings In this crossover trial of 241 lunch observations from 38 children, 20 minutes of seated lunch time were associated with significantly more consumption and significantly less waste of fruits and vegetables compared with 10 minutes of seated lunch time. Entree and beverage consumption was not significantly different between the 10-minute and 20-minute seated lunch conditions. Meaning Results from this study support policies that require 20 minutes of seated lunch time for school-age children, which could lead to better diet quality and reduced food waste.