School food environment: analysis of school canteens in Brazilian capitals and implications for public policy

Abstract Background This study aimed to characterize school canteens and food commercialization practices in private schools located in the capitals of Brazil. Method A cross-sectional study was conducted based on data from 2.241 school canteens serving elementary and high school levels, collected between 2022 and 2024 as part of the Study on Food Commercialization in Brazilian Schools (Caeb). A validated instrument was used to assess the availability of foods and beverages, based on the NOVA classification and the recommendations of the Brazilian Dietary Guidelines. A Healthiness Index (HI) was calculated. Data analysis included the calculation of relative frequencies, means, and their respective 95% confidence intervals. Results In Brazil, most canteens have fewer than five employees (77.1%), are outsourced (55.1%), and offer snacks (92.5%). The most commonly sold items were bottled water (79.42%), freshly squeezed fruit juice (70.54%), soda (61.8%), and homemade-style cake (59.53%). The average HI score among these canteens was 56.8 (95% CI: 56.4–57.2). Stratified analysis revealed that the Southern macro-region had the highest HI compared to other regions, at 63.0 (95% CI: 61.5–64.5). Implications and conclusions The findings reveal that the majority of private school canteens in Brazil present an unhealthy food environment, characterized by the widespread availability of ultra-processed foods. These results underscore the urgent need for specific regulations targeting the private sector, aiming to promote adequate and healthy eating within school settings.