Science Based Snacking

Science Based Snacking

Okay parents, now’s your chance to put your two cents worth in on what snacks are served at your child’s school. Through the Healthy and Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010, the USDA is proposing new requirements for snacks served to students at public schools through school stores, snack bars, or vending machines. Modeled after the new lunch and breakfast requirements, snack suggestions focus on more whole grains, fruits, low fat dairy, vegetables, and protein, and less sugar, fat, and sodium. In other words, not your typical candy bars, chips and sodas. The USDA has stated that school fund raising bake sales, items brought in for classroom parties or celebrations, bagged lunches, and after school hours sporting events will not be subject to new snack requirements. Public comments will be taken by the USDA for sixty days after the rule is published in the Federal Register, which should be this week. The USDA has also stressed that the new snack rules will establish minimum requirements, and schools and states can impose stricter snack standards as they see fit. Pretty soon the only person parents will be able to point the finger of blame at for their child’s weight problems is the one looking back at them in the mirror.

 

 

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