Ethnic and Gender Differences in Request For and Use of Low/Non-Fat Foods in Bag Lunches

This study examined ethnic and gender differences in frequency of use and request for low-fat or non-fat foods in bag lunches, while controlling for socioeconomic status. Questionnaires were completed by 1,678 middle school students and their parents (72% response). Ethnic distribution included White (51%), Latino (17%), Asian (11%), Multi-ethnic (11%), and African American (8%). Forty-five percent of students (N = 712, 59% female) brought lunch to school a mean of 3.6 (SD = 1.5) days per week. Boys brought lunch more often (M = 3.8 days/week vs. 3.4, respectively), yet requested less low-fat foods than girls. Whites brought lunches with the most low/non-fat items. Ethnic differences also were found in the use of seven specific bag lunch foods and whether these items were regular or low-fat. Because of ethnic and gender differences, different strategies for reducing fat in bag lunches are needed for different groups.