Procurement of Foods in Mississippi Delta Schools

Authors: LANDRY, ALICIA - University Of Central Arkansas; Thomson, Jessica; Walls, Tameka

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/29/2020
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Our objectives are to present food procurement amounts (weight and cost) in two Mississippi school districts, one participating in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) and illustrate the potential economic impact of purchasing local. Procurement data, academic years 2018-2019 and 2019-2020, were coded and categorized into meal components. Dairy, protein, and grains were the largest proportion of expenditures for both districts. For the non-FFVP district, the largest procurement amounts for fruit and vegetable categories were juices and potatoes, while for the FFVP district, they were apples and potatoes. The varieties of fruits and vegetables procured for the FFVP district were larger than the non-FFVP district (16-18 vs. 12 different fruits; 19-20 vs. 17-18 different vegetables). For both districts and years combined, 146,678 pounds of fruit and 60,095 pounds of vegetables were purchased. Thus, the volume of food required to feed children in school should be considered when evaluating the feasibility of local food procurement. For schools to purchase 100% of produce locally, modifying the variety of fruits and vegetables procured and/or growing more varieties locally is necessary. Hence, engagement of school administrators with local producers is necessary for mutually beneficial effects on school nutrition programs and local agricultural economies.