Food and nutrition education in Maltese primary schools : its need, potential and implementation

Abstract

Malnutrition resulting from affluent lifestyles is widespread and is also prevalent in Malta. This study proposes that the formal introduction of Food and Nutrition education in the local Primary school curriculum may be a key to improved nutrition. Reasons cited as necessitating such a step include unhealthy food consumption even in childhood, negative influence from parents and advertising, and the low prominence given to the subject to date. These factors are confirmed by the writer's original surveys and studies. The school is portrayed as having the essential qualities for promoting healthy eating habits and this is substantiated by several foreign experiences. Prospects for the official inclusion of Food and Nutrition education in Maltese Primary schools are assessed and a concerted and coordinated effort by all the interested parties is strongly recommended. The most suitable methodology is also considered and suggestions are made for specific Food and nutrition learning activities m1d for correlation with existing subjects.