A Survey of Food System Knowledge, Attitudes, and Experiences Among High School Students

Students were surveyed to assess food system knowledge, attitudes, and experiences. Participants are least knowledgeable about food system sectors, sustainability, and agriculture; more knowledgeable about nutrition and food origins; and most knowledgeable about food safety, local foods, and hunger. The majority of participants support both farmland protection and new land development. Student attitudes favor local food systems, but attitudes are not supported by behavioral intentions. Food system knowledge and attitudes supportive of sustaining the local food system are positively associated with participation in youth clubs, gardening, and food related activities at home. Knowledge is negatively associated with television viewing.