Farm-to-School programmes, benefits, health outcomes and barriers: A structured literature review

Abstract

Introduction: A common refrain in public health and medicine concerns the rapidly rising incidence of obesity and metabolic-like syndromes over the last two decades. A plethora of data suggests there are many roots to the issue and what to do about it. The rise of childhood obesity and the growing incidence of adult endocrine diseases like type 2 diabetes mellitus in paediatric populations are the most concerning. One of the solutions that aims to tackle health and food justice issues is the Farm-to-School programme (FTSP), which helps bring local fruit and vegetables (FVs) to schools and associated nutrition-related programmes. In the USA, a significant expansion of FTSPs has happened since the early 2000s. Numerous economic, social and nutritional benefits of these programmes have been documented, and various methodologies have been used to elucidate the benefits and barriers. Method: This paper reviews the multifaceted strengths of FTSPs including health, institutional and farm-related benefits. The paper also discusses federal- and state-level environment and the obstacles to FTSP implementation. Conclusion: FTSPs offer a comprehensive way to strengthen childhood nutrition education and stimulate local communities economically and socially. FTSPs increase the purchase of locally produced food items, resulting in higher incomes for small farmers. FTSPs have also increased community engagement and new opportunities for farming businesses. In sum, FTSPs can be considered a boon for local schools, producers, communities and better health outcomes for school-age children. Teaching children about food literacy could prove beneficial for supporting their self-efficacy regarding foods and encouraging lifetime healthy dietary behaviours.