The key objective of this project is to develop a computer simulation model of school food policies that will simulate their effects on youth overweight and obesity rates. This computer model also will provide a user-friendly synthesis of current research, which will provide an accessible means by which practitioners, schools, and other stakeholders might develop and prioritize policies and develop a comprehensive and coherent program to address this critical public health issue. The study will utilize a population model through age 18. All available published research to date will be assessed for entry into the simulation model, including data focusing on racial/ethnic minorities and low socioeconomic status groups.
Start Date: September 2007
ID #: 63048
Principal Investigator: David Levy, PhD
Organization: H.B.S.A., Inc
Funding Round: Round 2
Age Groups: Adolescents (grades 9 to 12), Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)
Keywords: Competitive foods, School meal programs, Snacks
Resource Type: Grant Summary
Focus Area: School & After School
Related Research
May 2011
Simulation Models of Obesity: A Review of the Literature and Implications for Research and Policy
The article presents an overview of existing simulation models (SMs) for obesity, discusses their strengths and weaknesses and suggests directions for future research. The authors conclude that SMs can serve as a summary of knowledge and a structure for improving knowledge and understanding of the complex factors contributing to obesity.December 2025
From Policy to Plate: Implications of 2025 U.S. Federal Policy Changes on School Meals
School meals are a cornerstone of the United States’ nutrition safety net for children from low-income families, providing nearly 30 million lunches daily. However, recent U.S. policy actions may limit access to school meals for children who need them most. This commentary, published in the Nutrients Special Issue The Influence of School Meals on Children MoreDecember 2025