CAFES Survey

The Cafeteria Assessment for Elementary Schools (CAFES) app identifies physical attributes of elementary school cafeterias associated with students’ selection and consumption of fruits and vegetables. CAFES focuses on 2nd-5th graders and USDA-funded National School Lunch Program participants, especially those receiving free- or reduced-price meals. The assessment requires speaking with a school principal or vice principal, food services, and observations of the preparation, serving, and eating areas. After answering all questions, the app generates scores and a list of suggested improvements, many of which are low- or no-cost and can be immediately implemented to improve healthy eating. A paper version of the assessment is also available here: