SUPPLY AND ADVERTISING OF FOOD AND BEVER AGES WITH FRONT-OF-PACK AGE WARNING LABELING IN SCHOOLS OF METROPOLITAN LIMA 2023

Objectives. To describe the supply and advertising of food and beverages with front-of-package warning labeling in kiosks and cafeterias, and in school environments of public and private schools in Metropolitan Lima. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 45 schools in Metropolitan Lima between March and May 2023. The supply and advertising of food and beverages were observed in school kiosks during the school day and among street vendors located at the school exit gates. Results. A total of 57 school kiosks and cafeterias from 45 schools were analyzed. Processed and ultra-processed foods and beverages were observed in 96.5% of them, and at least one product with front-of-package warning labeling (octagon) was identified in 89.5%. Street vendors were found at 41 schools, totaling 148 vendors. Processed and ultra-processed food and beverages were observed in 77.7% of them, and at least one food or beverage with an octagon was observed in 48.6%. Advertising for processed and ultra-processed foods was observed in 57.9% of school kiosks and cafeterias and in 27.7% of street vendors. Conclusions. Evidence shows the exposure of schoolchildren to unhealthy food environments and non-compliance with regulations prohibiting the sale of foods with octagons both inside and around schools. It is necessary to reinforce information, awareness, and monitoring of the educational community to ensure the effectiveness of these policies in protecting the health of schoolchildren.