TABLE 1.

Examples of Behavioral Economics Concepts Applied to the School Lunchroom

Behavioral Economics Concept	Lunchroom Change Example
Default choice	• Healthier entrée is served unless other option is requested • White milk placed before chocolate milk in coolers • Healthier entrée placed first on service line
Accessibility	• Whole fruit placed on multiple points on all service lines • Salad bar/prepackages salads in high traffic area • Students must use cash to purchase a la carte items
Availability	• Two kinds of fruit and vegetables available • Hot and cold vegetables offered • Salad bar/prepackages salads available to all students • Variety of whole fruit offered
Taste expectations	• Cut, raw vegetables paired with dip • Spices/seasoning available for vegetables
Acceptability	• Sliced or cut whole fruit offered • Whole fruit offered