Concession stands at school sporting events are often overlooked by those advocating for healthy school food. However, a new study highlights how concession stands can benefit from adding on healthy items.

"We found that an average of 77% of students purchased healthier foods when they were available and that revenue also increased when a variety of healthy items were available," says the study's co-author Brian Wansink. "This a game changer for both schools and healthier students."

"While these findings were positive," says co-author Helena Laroche, "We really wanted to know how students felt about the change, so we conducted a follow-up survey to gauge their satisfaction."

314 students responded to the survey, which asked them to indicate whether the availability of healthy foods was important to them or not. The researchers split the survey responses based on the students' answer to this question and found that both groups purchased healthier foods and were more satisfied with the offerings. Among those who valued the availability of healthy items, 79% reported purchasing at least one new healthy item. Of those who did not believe it was important to offer healthy foods, almost as many 76% reported purchasing at least one healthy item during the school year. Furthermore, the latter group indicated being more satisfied with the variety of foods offered and the former more satisfied with the healthfulness and taste.

The researchers stress the importance of sending students a consistent message that health is important by offering healthy items wherever food is offered or sold.

Good News Is Also Good For You: Click To Share - Source: Cornell Food and Brand Lab, Photo by Mary Harrell Leonard