Gender issues and gaps in school meal programs research: A scoping review protocol

This scoping review protocol maps out the process for a forthcoming scoping study on gender issues in school meals programs. Due to their large and multi-sectoral reach, school meal programs have the potential to drive progress toward gender equality on a global scale, or alternatively, to perpetuate inequality. Gender considerations related to school meal programs pertain to issues such as: food and nutrition security; school enrolment, attendance, and educational achievement; agrifood systems and agricultural production; and rural economies and livelihoods, to name a few. A robust evidence base on gender in school meal programs is needed to inform the design and delivery of gender-sensitive programs. This scoping review is intended to provide a critical first step to understanding the current research landscape to inform future research pathways. More holistic and nuanced gender research can be used as a critical evidence base to inform more inclusive, effective, and fair school meal programs for all.