Acceptability and feasibility of strategies to promote healthy dietary choices in UK secondary school canteens: a qualitative study

Abstract Objective To explore the acceptability and feasibility of choice architecture strategies for dietary change in UK secondary school canteens from perspectives pupils, staff catering providers through qualitative focus groups interviews. Results Three with adolescents (n = 15; mean age 13.7 years; standard deviation 1.9) eight interviews caterers recruited one provider Coventry were undertaken. The most acceptable intervening to drive healthy choices are those that make use proximity positioning, on basis convenience was main drivers food/drink selections. Acknowledging adolescents’ desire autonomy food be familiar predictable considered important enhancing acceptability. Challenges nudge included concerns about behavioural issues, increased waste, a decline uptake canteen purchases. design interventions settings should consider specific characteristics this group setting ensure successful implementation.