By Mata Press Service

As children across Canada head back to school this week, a new survey has uncovered a troubling trend of lunchbox shaming in schools, particularly affecting students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

The study, commissioned by Sistema, reveals that over one in four Canadian parents (26%) report their child has experienced ridicule or bullying due to the contents of their lunchbox.

This form of bullying, known as lunchbox shaming, often targets foods that reflect a family's cultural heritage or socioeconomic status.

The survey findings highlight a stark disparity in experiences across different ethnic groups.

Parents from Black and Southeast Asian communities reported the highest rates of lunchbox shaming at 42%, more than double the rate reported by White parents (17%).

New Canadians who have lived in the country for five years or less were particularly vulnerable, with 40% reporting their children had faced such bullying.

According to parents, the primary reasons for negative reactions towards their children's lunches were unfamiliar appearance and smell.

Specific foods that often triggered shaming included rice dishes (29%), curries (27%), stewed meats or vegetables (19%), and fish dishes (17%).

The consequences of lunchbox shaming extend beyond momentary discomfort.

Nearly half (46%) of affected students asked their parents to change their lunches, while over a quarter (27%) of parents resorted to packing more "traditional North American" meals. This shift can potentially undermine a child's cultural identity and self-esteem.

Highlights from the survey include:

• Parents reported their children experienced lunchbox shaming because of the appearance (44%), the smell (44%) and the lack of familiarity with the food (44%)
• Parents said their children were most often lunchbox shamed when they brought rice dishes (29%), curries (27%), stewed meats or vegetables (19%) or fish dishes (17%) to school
• 96% of parents agreed that all children have a right to enjoy their school lunch free from bullying and shaming
• 89% of parents agreed that kids should be educated to be accepting about foods and traditions from all cultures
• 80% of parents agreed schools and teachers should be more active in preventing lunchbox shaming
• 77% of parents agreed that lunchbox shaming can have a long-term negative impact on children and their cultural identity

In response to these concerning findings, Sistema has launched "Love Your Lunch Day" to promote food diversity and create a more inclusive school environment.

The initiative aims to spark conversations about lunch inclusivity and provide tools for parents, teachers, and lunchroom supervisors to address the issue.

Jenny Leach, General Manager of Newell Brands Canada, emphasized the importance of this movement: "Love Your Lunch is not only about creating awareness around lunchbox shaming but also about giving parents, teachers, and lunchroom supervisors the tools to talk about the importance of lunch inclusivity and celebrate diverse lunches.

"The survey results serve as a reminder of the ongoing need for cultural sensitivity and inclusivity in Canadian schools. With 96% of parents agreeing that all children have a right to enjoy their school lunch free from bullying, it's clear that addressing lunchbox shaming is a priority for families across the country.

Sistema has also partnered with Rainbow Plate, a social enterprise that creates food literacy resources and workshops for teachers and parents, to help extend the Love Your Lunch movement into schools and homes.

Rainbow Plate has co-created downloadable resources for teachers and parents to help facilitate age-appropriate conversations about lunchbox bullying with elementary students, to create a more inclusive lunchtime experience in schools.

"When a child brings lunch to school, they're bringing a little piece of home with them – and that's special," said Janet Nezon, Founder of Rainbow Plate.

"When lunchbox shaming happens, it hurts children. In fact, Sistema's survey found that 53% of students who experienced lunchbox shaming felt upset afterward. Parents and schools must work together to foster a more inclusive and supportive space at lunchtime where all students feel equal and valued – and it starts with conversations and sharing experiences."

How can parents support their children who have experienced lunchbox shaming

1.Open Communication

2.Empathy and Understanding

3.Empowerment and Confidence

4.Educate and Advocate

5.Peer Education

6.Role Modeling

By taking these steps, parents can help their children navigate the challenges of lunchbox shaming and promote a more inclusive and accepting school environment.