• The majority of students who don't eat a school lunch bring a packed lunch (64%). Others go home or eat out (11%), or buy from vending machines or convenience stores (5%). In total, 19% of students say they don't eat lunch during the school day.

  • 21% of students told us they don't eat anything before facing the rigors of the academic day. The percentage of students who don't eat breakfast increases as they grow older and under-nourishment is becoming a major concern for girls.

 
  • Of those who eat a school lunch, 64% opt for the complete meal, while the remaining 42% select individual items. Only 3% of the students select both a meal and individual items. Girls have a greater tendency to select a la carte items.
  • The decision to eat a school meal is most often made by the child. Even the youngest students' opinions drive this decision.
  • Students are evenly split between a preference for a home-packed versus school-supplied lunch. Girls show a slight preference for a home-packed lunch, while boys prefer a school lunch.
  • 75% of students are required to remain at school during lunch periods.
  • Food taste is the most important factor for children of all ages. Convenience is a strong second factor for high school students.
  • The most frequent response to the question about problems in the cafeteria was "long lines," which was cited by 31% of all students.
  • Students want to see their school offer a variety of foods.

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