To map, synthesize and assess evidence on European school food interventions and effectiveness on nutrition outcomes in children and adolescents aged ≤19. This scoping review follows PRISMA-ScR guidelines. We searched in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Education Resources Information Center for studies published between January 2020 and February 2026, following a published protocol. Two researchers independently reviewed titles, abstracts, and full texts. One researcher extracted data using a standardized tool. The search identified 900 articles; 65 met the inclusion criteria. Most interventions ( n = 52) were in primary or secondary schools. Educational interventions ( n = 43) were associated with positive dietary behaviors, such as higher fruit and vegetable intake, and favorable weight-related outcomes. Food provision (n = 5), including free school meals, was associated with healthier dietary intake and lower food insecurity. Multicomponent approaches ( n = 17) were associated with sustained improvements in dietary intake and favorable anthropometric outcomes. Equity-designed interventions ( n = 14) were associated with improvements in food security, dietary intake, and body mass index within targeted population. School food interventions in Europe are associated with positive shifts in dietary behaviors and weight-related outcomes. Future research should strengthen equity integration, early childhood approaches, and long-term policy support to enhance impact and sustainability. • Educational and whole-school approaches consistently improved children's dietary behaviors. • Food provision programs improved dietary behaviors and strengthened food security. • Multicomponent interventions showed the most sustained weight benefits. • Equity-focused interventions showed larger effects in vulnerable groups. • Evidence was scarce in preschool and secondary school settings.
Vidal et al. (Wed,) studied this question.