Contribución nutricional del programa Comedores Escolares a la población infantil de diez escuelas municipales de la ciudad de Córdoba, Argentina

Introduction School canteens are one of the most widespread programs in recent decades which may have significant impacts on nutrition, health, growth and development in children. Objective To assess the nutritional contribution of School Canteens (PCE) program to children from municipal schools of Cordoba. Material and Method Was a descriptive and analytical study. I applied an observation guide and ration weighing measurements of the school canteens food supply and food recall method was used 24 hours a sample of 170 school children. Results The breakfasts/snacks they had a deficit in Calcium, vitamin A and C and iron and excess of simple sugars. The lunches they had a excess of saturated fats and deficit of energy, calcium, iron, fiber and vitamin A. The food consumption of school children was high in discretionary calories, sugars and saturated fats and deficit in fiber, calcium and vitamin A, associated with some sociodemographic characteristics. There had associations between the inadequacy of the target intake of calcium and vitamin found and suboptimal quality and dining in these nutrients (p< 0,05). Conclusions We conclude what in this context there are nutritional aspects that are necessary improve.