University food environment: characterization and changes from 2011 to 2016 in a Brazilian public university

Abstract

Objective To describe the food environment of a public university located in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and to review the changes that occurred between the years 2011 and 2016. Methods Time trend study (through repeated cross-sectional studies) of the sale of food, culinary preparations and beverages in the University Campus establishments in 2011, 2012 and 2016. Variables regarding the description of the establishments and the offer, price and advertising of food, beverages and culinary preparations were assessed through a checklist. Comparisons between establishments in each year and the analysis of such comparison changes during the period were performed by assessing the difference between absolute and relative values observed in each year. Results Increased number of establishments available, good convenience and financial accessibility were observed. There was a relative disadvantage in the availability of fresh or minimally processed foods and culinary preparations; a predominance of advertising of ultra-processed foods; and lack of nutritional information of culinary preparations. The predominance of establishments selling snacks and candies increased over the years. Conclusion In the period studied, the university food environment did not favor healthy food choices.