Abstract
BACKGROUND: Obesity, including among children and adolescents, is a major problem both nationally and internationally and is strongly linked to nutrition. Eating habits are formed at an early age and can influence the development of disease. Schools as places of learning and living can promote balanced and sustainable eating habits. The aim of this study was therefore to analyze selected curricula on nutrition education in order to identify deficits and suggestions for improvement in school nutrition education. METHODS: The most recent version of the scientific and home economics framework curricula of secondary schools as of 2019 were examined by means of qualitative curriculum analysis. The focus was on nutrition topics as well as their possibilities for in-depth study, practical implementation, and timeframe. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: According to this analysis, nutrition and human biology are taught mainly up to grade 8 in all curricula, while more complex topics tend to be taught from grade 9 onward. Concrete learning content relevant to everyday life on practical nutrition, food quality, and the role of nutrition in disease prevention can significantly improve students' nutritional literacy but currently receive too little attention in the curricula. Home economics subjects address consumer issues, among other topics, but are offered in only three out of six states. Electives and honors courses can supplement nutrition education, but are not part of the curriculum at all schools. The amount of time and the practical implementation of nutrition education are strongly dependent on internal school factors. In some cases, there are considerable deficits in nutrition education. CONCLUSION: It is considered useful to intensify nutrition education in higher grades, to introduce home economics subjects in all types of schools, and to standardize the curriculum content among the individual states.