Large-scale school meal programs and student health: Evidence from rural China

Abstract

The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), established in 1975, provides researchbased policy solutions to sustainably reduce poverty and end hunger and malnutrition. IFPRI's strategic research aims to foster a climate-resilient and sustainable food supply; promote healthy diets and nutrition for all; build inclusive and efficient markets, trade systems, and food industries; transform agricultural and rural economies; and strengthen institutions and governance. Gender is integrated in all the Institute's work. Partnerships, communications, capacity strengthening, and data and knowledge management are essential components to translate IFPRI's research from action to impact. The Institute's regional and country programs play a critical role in responding to demand for food policy research and in delivering holistic support for country-led development. IFPRI collaborates with partners around the world.

Free school meals and cognitive ability: Evidence from China's student nutrition improvement plan

“…Third, this paper sheds light on the mechanisms by which nutritional interventions affect cognitive performance. Understanding how nutritional intervention programs generate impacts is critical for improving these programs, especially as China's nutritional improvement programs are in a phase of gradual advancement (Wang et al., 2021). Our research responds to this related need.…”