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Nutrition Policy Institute

Mother and son shopping in the produce section of a grocery store.

Research for healthy food, people and places

The Nutrition Policy Institute (NPI) envisions a world in which healthy food, beverages and opportunities for physical activity are accessible, affordable, equitable and sustainable for everyone. NPI's mission is to conduct and translate policy-relevant research to transform environments for healthy children, families and communities.


Nutrition Policy Institute News

Stay informed with the latest research, policy, and news from the Nutrition Policy Institute.  Please see additional news items on our Nutrition Policy Institute news blog.

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Elementary school students play outside on the school blacktop with their PE teacher during a cloudy day.

New study examines the role of structured play in reducing chronic absenteeism in California elementary schools

April 22, 2026 - A recent study assessed whether student participation in Playworks recess programs was associated with lower chronic absenteeism in low-income California elementary schools. Schools with Playworks had slightly lower chronic absenteeism than schools without.

 

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A mother and holds her young daughter in her arms while selecting apples in the produce section of a grocery store.

NPI comments on the critical importance of USDA’s national food security data

April 16, 2026 - The Household Food Security Survey Module is one of the most important federal tools for measuring food insecurity and evaluating nutrition policy. NPI highlights its critical role and the need to preserve its integrity.

 

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A childcare provider holds an infant in her arms while bottle feeding her. Two toddlers sit next to her in high-chairs eating snacks.

A questionnaire to assess nutrition and physical activity practices in childcare

April 11, 2026 - A validated tool helps childcare providers evaluate and improve nutrition and physical activity environments in their programs.

 


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Office Locations

Nutrition Policy Institute

University of California Office of the President
1111 Franklin St.
Oakland, CA 94607
United States

Mission Statement

The Nutrition Policy Institute (NPI) conducts research for healthy food, people and places. NPI envisions a world in which healthy food, beverages and opportunities for physical activity are accessible, affordable, equitable and sustainable for everyone. NPI's mission is to conduct and translate policy-relevant research to transform environments for healthy children, families and communities.