Federal school meal programs have had to adhere to specific standards for years, but food and snacks that aren't part of a federal program have not. Today, U.S. Health Officials took their first steps to correct this and improve the overall health and nutritional value of food, beverages, and snacks offered in public schools.
"The committee authoring this report first divided foods and beverages into two tiers, based on how well they conform to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Tier 1 foods and beverages provide at least one serving of fruit, vegetable and/or whole grains or non fat/low-fat dairy. Tier 2 items do not meet Tier 1 specifications but aren't entirely outside dietary intake recommendations. These might include baked potato chips, low-sodium whole wheat crackers or animal crackers."
Lisa Harper Mallonee, a registered dietician, says the recommendations are wonderful but also emphasized the importance of getting schools and parents working to implement the recommendations. Read more
online.
Labels: health_officials, nutrition, schools