QUALITATIVE EVALUATION OF SCHOOL MEALS IN A PHILANTHROPIC SCHOOL IN SÃO LUÍS, MARANHÃO, BRAZIL

Abstract

Introduction: School feeding plays a fundamental role in health promotion, child development, and the formation of healthy eating habits. In this context, the National School Feeding Program (PNAE) establishes guidelines aimed at providing nutritionally adequate meals for students in basic education. Objective: To evaluate the nutritional quality of the menus offered in a philanthropic school located in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. Materials and Method: This is a descriptive field study with a qualitative approach, carried out through direct observation of the meals offered over two consecutive weeks. Data analysis was conducted in two stages: menu characterization and nutritional evaluation using the IQ COSAN tool. Results: The evaluated menus obtained scores of 30 and 32 points and were classified as nutritionally inadequate. The results showed absence of fresh fruits, low frequency of vegetables and greens, recurrent presence of ultra-processed foods, and limited inclusion of regional foods, in addition to discrepancies between the planned and executed menus. Scientific Contribution: The study highlights the importance of analyzing the meals effectively offered in the school environment, emphasizing the need for greater alignment between menu planning and execution. Conclusion: Despite the presence of relatively structured main meals, the menus presented important inadequacies, demonstrating the need for adjustments to achieve greater compliance with nutritional recommendations and to promote healthy eating in the school environment.