Animal protein increases test scores

Micronutrient deficiencies and suboptimal energy intake are widespread in rural Kenya, with detrimental effects on child growth and development. Sporadic school feeding programs rarely include animal source foods (ASF).

In the present study, a cluster-randomized feeding trial was undertaken to determine the impact of snacks containing ASF on district-wide, end-term standardized school test scores and nutrient intake. A total of twelve primary schools were randomly assigned to one of three isoenergetic feeding groups (a local plant-based stew (githeri) with meat, githeri plus whole milk or githeri with added oil) or a control group receiving no intervention feeding. After the initial term that served as baseline, children were fed at school for five consecutive terms over two school years from 1999 to 2001.

Children in the Meat group showed significantly greater improvements in test scores than those in all the other groups. Compared with the Control group, the Meat group showed significant improvements in test scores in Arithmetic, English, Kiembu, Kiswahili and Geography. Folate, iron, available iron, energy per body weight, vitamin B12, zinc and riboflavin intake were significant contributors to the change in test scores.

The greater improvements in test scores of children receiving ASF indicate improved academic performance, which can result in greater academic achievement. The study was published in the October issue of British Journal of Nutrition.