Comparative assessment of physical development indicators of pupils in general education schools with different types of food service operation

Abstract

Objective. To carry out a comparative assessment of physical development indexes of pupils of general education schools with hot meals and a buffet type of catering.

Materials and methods. There were examined 432 schoolchildren from 7 to 15 years old, divided into two groups: group 1 – pupils of general education schools in which there were canteens based on food raw materials and semifinished products; group 2 – pupils of general education schools with a buffet with implementation of ready meals, confectionery, drinks, etc. To study the main indexes of physical development somatometric research methods were used. Differences at p≤0,05 were considered statistically significant.

Results. The absence of hot meal service contributes to an increase in the number of children with body length below average in 2.3-15.7 times (among girls aged 11-15 –  p<0.001); with excess body weight – 1.2-5 times (among boys aged 7-10 – p<0.01), with reduced body weight – 1.4-1.7 times; with increased and excessive nutrition – 1.3-11.6 times (among boys - p<0.05-0.001, and among girls – p<0.05). Consequently, the absence of hot meal service in general education schools affects the indicators of the physical development of children: deviations from the mean values in body length being more frequently observed in girls, and in body weight in boys.

Conclusion. The absence of hot meal service in education institutions negatively affects the physical development of students. For the harmonious development of children, the formation of hygienic skills of healthy eating and a conscious attitude to the choice of a proper diet, it is necessary to organize hot school meals and strengthen sanitary and educational work.