Evaluation of Preferences Among Students Participating in the US Department of Agriculture Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.

Background: Improving children's fruit and vegetable (FV) preferences may be important as preferences can predict FV consumption. The purpose of this study was to evaluate FV preferences over time, with repeated experience, as part of the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP).

Methods: Fruits (F; N = 28) and vegetables (V; N = 29) were distributed twice a week, over 35 weeks, at a participating FFVP school (N = 236 students, 12 teachers, K-2nd grade).

Fruit and Vegetable Preferences and Identification by Kindergarteners through 2nd-Graders With or Without the US Department of Agriculture Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.

Objective: The US Department of Agriculture Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) allows schools to increase fruit and vegetable (FV) exposure by distributing FV as snacks. The objective of this study was to compare kindergarten through second (K-2nd)-graders who were exposed or not to FFVP for preferences and identification.

Design, Setting, Participants: The FV Preference Survey for K-2nd-graders contained 12 fruits and 12 vegetables, a 3-Likert scale (liked it, okay, don't like it), and an I don't know option.

Design and Evaluation of a Training Protocol for a Photographic Method of Visual Estimation of Fruit and Vegetable Intake among Kindergarten Through Second-Grade Students.

Objective: To design a replicable training protocol for visual estimation of fruit and vegetable (FV) intake of kindergarten through second-grade students through digital photography of lunch trays that results in reliable data for FV served and consumed.

Methods: Protocol development through literature and researcher input was followed by 3 laboratory-based trainings of 3 trainees. Lunchroom data collection sessions were done at 2 elementary schools for kindergarten through second-graders.