Ethnic and Gender Differences in Request For and Use of Low/Non‐Fat Foods in Bag Lunches

: This study examined ethnic and gender differences in frequency of use and request for low‐fat or non‐fat foods in bag lunches, while controlling for socioeconomic status. Questionnaires were completed by 1,678 middle school students and their parents (72% response). Ethnic distribution included White (51%), Latino (17%), Asian (11%), Multi‐ethnic (11%), and African American (8%). Forty‐five percent of students (N = 712, 59% female) brought lunch to school a mean of 3.6 (SD = 1.5) days per week. Boys brought lunch more often (M = 3.8 days/week vs. 3.4, respectively), yet requested less low‐fat foods than girls. Whites brought lunches with the most low/non‐fat items. Ethnic differences also were found in the use of seven specific bag lunch foods and whether these items were regular or low‐fat. Because of ethnic and gender differences, different strategies for reducing fat in bag lunches are needed for different groups.