Beans with means -

Abstract

The meat intake in Sweden is increasing, which have a negative effect on numerous health and environmental aspects. To get a healthier environment and population in Sweden, a replacement of all or some of the meat with legumes is considered positive. An introduction to legumes at a young age would be a great way to promote healthy eating habits. The purpose with this study is to investigate the children's response to an increased serving of legumes in the school meal. This study had a qualitative ethnographic approach and participating observations took place in a small school with children in the grades zero to one during their school lunch. During two weeks the lunch menu was modified, this was done by the researchers in collaboration with the chef. All meat was replaced with legumes and the already vegetarian dishes were complemented with legumes.

Overall, there was a positive response to the serving of legumes in the school. Their reactions were affected by taste, looks, expectations, norms and peer pressure. Lentils as an ingredient in soup and lasagna were mostly appreciated, while foods like bean patties and burgers, which resemble meat, were less appreciated as the taste did not meet their expectations. We state that a higher serving of legumes is possible in school lunches to promote healthier and more sustainable eating habits among Swedish children. In combination with education on legumes, the results could yet be improved.