Análise bibliográfica do IQCOSAN como ferramenta de monitoramento da alimentação escolar no Brasil: desafios e perspectivas

Abstract

School feeding plays a fundamental role in the food and nutritional security of Brazilian students, being regulated by the National School Feeding Program (PNAE). To ensure the nutritional quality of menus, the Quality Index for the Coordination of Food and Nutritional Security (IQCOSAN) has been used as a monitoring tool. However, its implementation still faces structural, operational, and political challenges. This study aimed to analyze the challenges and perspectives for the effective implementation of IQCOSAN in Brazil. This is an integrative literature review, in which 17 studies were selected from recognized scientific databases, following inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results showed that the adoption of IQCOSAN encounters difficulties such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of training for responsible professionals, and the absence of a continuous monitoring system. However, the studies also highlighted the tool's potential to optimize the nutritional quality of school meals and strengthen public food policies. It is concluded that, for IQCOSAN to be widely implemented and effective, investment in infrastructure, professional training, and the integration of technologies that facilitate its continuous use is necessary. Thus, the index can be consolidated as an essential mechanism for ensuring students' food security in Brazil.