RESEARCH

Agricultural Experiences Are Positively Associated With High School Students’ Fruit and Vegetable Perceptions and Consumption

The study found that high school students with farm experience or home gardens had more favorable attitudes toward local produce and were more willing to try new fruits and vegetables, with home gardening also associated with increased vegetable consumption. These results suggests that offering agricultural activities to adolescents can positively influence their eating habits.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: Children/Youth

Setting or Context: Schools/Educational Settings

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Increased Horticultural Knowledge

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Edible Plant Gardening

Evidence Type: Case Studies

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Paid

Print Form

Summary

This study investigated whether agricultural experiences influenced high school students’ attitudes and behaviors related to eating fruits and vegetables. Researchers surveyed 327 students in a lower-income, diverse, urban community, asking about their experiences helping on a farm or having a home garden. They then looked at whether these experiences were linked to students’ perceptions of local produce, willingness to try new fruits and vegetables, and how much fruit and vegetables they actually ate. The study aimed to see if involving adolescents in agriculture could encourage them to eat healthier.

The study found that students who had prior farm experience or a home garden had more positive views about local produce and were more willing to try new fruits and vegetables. Students with a home garden were also more likely to eat enough vegetables. The study suggests that providing agricultural experiences to high school students could improve their attitudes toward healthy eating and increase vegetable consumption. The authors suggest that schools and communities consider agricultural programs to promote healthier eating habits among adolescents.

Link

Greer, A.E., Davis, S., Sandolo, C., Gaudet, N., & Castrogivanni, B. (2018). Agricultural experiences are positively associated with high school students’ fruit and vegetable perceptions and consumption. J Nutr Educ Behav., 50(2), 133-140.e1.

Other Recommended Research

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.