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Research Project: Interplay of the Physical Environment, Social Domain, and Intrapersonal Factors on Nutrition and Physical Activity Related Health Behaviors in Children and Adolescents

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Title: Local Farmers and Food Procurement in Mississippi Delta Schools: Fertile Ground

Author
item Walls, Tameka
item Thomson, Jessica
item LANDRY, ALICIA - University Of Central Arkansas

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/2021
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Background: School food service programs in the Mississippi Delta often procure fruits and vegetables (FV) grown outside this agriculturally rich region. Opportunities to strengthen local economies by supporting local farmers and to encourage increased FV intake in children by providing fresh, local food may be prolific. Objectives: Objectives were to determine and compare FV procurement amounts (weight and cost) in two Mississippi Delta school districts, one participating in the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP), for two consecutive years. Study Design, Settings, Participants: Procurement data from two districts, academic years 2018-2019 and 2019-2020, were obtained and compiled. Only foods categorized as FV were included. Measurable Outcome/Analysis: Amounts of procured FV were calculated as weight in pounds and cost in dollars for each school district and academic year. Results: In the FFVP district, 18 and 16 different fruits were purchased in respective years with apples, oranges, mixed fruit, and either pears or juice representing half of expenditures and by weight. For vegetables, 20 and 19 different types were purchased in respective years with potatoes, greens, and either corn or tomatoes representing half of expenditures, and potatoes, tomatoes, and either greens or legumes representing half by weight. In the non-FFVP district, 12 different fruits were purchased in both years with apples and juice representing half of expenditures and juice alone accounting for half by weight. For vegetables, 18 and 17 different types were purchased in respective years with potatoes, tomatoes, and either corn or juice representing half of expenditures and by weight. Percentage amount changes were small except for fruits (increase) for the FFVP district. Conclusion: Encouraging training and education about procurement policies and best practices may be needed. Capitalizing on numerous opportunities for growth in local agricultural economies by providing children with the best of the fertile MS Delta soil may yield long-term positive outcomes.