6. Food representation of children according to their social background

A qualitative sociological study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with 40 children, aged 9 to 11, from four French elementary schools. Group interviews were then conducted in each class, during which discussions were conducted based on material from the semi-structured interviews.

The results showed that children from disadvantaged backgrounds mentioned fewer foods, appeared to have a less varied diet, consumed fewer vegetables, and were more likely to eat ultra-processed foods than others. Children from more advantaged backgrounds appeared to be very concerned about the links between diet and health, mentioning a preference for "homemade" and "organic" foods, with concerns about chemicals. Disparities in children's eating habits could theoretically be linked to the observed and growing social inequalities in health, if we take into account the potential practices these habits entail and their likely effects on health.

Further research could focus on how to develop participatory food education teaching methods that adapt to children's social reality, and therefore to their different representations of food. One driver for action would be to develop food education teaching tools that integrate elements of discourse and concepts found in children's conversations.

Contacts : Louis Lebredonchel, Anthony Fardet