Comparisons of Food Service and Parent Perceptions of the Nutritional Quality of School Breakfast

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine differences between parent and food service staff (FSS) perspectives regarding nutritional quality of the School Breakfast Program (SBP). Methods: We showed participants 12 pictures of SBP meals. Respondents classified the pictures as "healthy" or "unhealthy" and gave a justification for their response. Trained research assistants analyzed open-ended responses for themes. Results: For a majority of the pictures, a higher percentage of FSS perceived school breakfast pictures as healthy compared to parents. Many parents rated meals "unhealthy" based on their appearance or appeal. FSS often rated meals "healthy" based on their nutritional components. Conclusions: There is a disconnect between parent and FSS perception of the healthfulness of school breakfast. Parents often justified healthfulness based on appearance and appeal.