A situational analysis of a healthy school canteen development program : lessons learned from a select group of primary schools in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Abstract:
The study aimed to describe the condition of school canteens and un-derstand the challenges in implementing a healthy school canteen development program in a group of primary schools in Jakarta, Indonesia. We used a rapid appraisal approach employing structured observation and semi-structured qualitative interviews methods in 11 public primary schools in Senen subdistrict, Central Jakarta. This study determined that none of the schools fulfilled the requirements for a healthy school canteen. They lacked commitment and human resource development. Most schools used a semi-permanent building and food handlers in all schools had never had formal training on food hygiene and sanitation. The central weakness of school commitment indicates its association with other low
performing indicators of a healthy school canteen. Schools in this study require further assistance to get started with a written policy and establish a committee for a healthy school canteen.