School Nutrition Policies Withstand Economic Hurdles
September 11, 2008 - A new report released by the School Nutrition Association (SNA) shows that school nutrition policies have remained intact despite rising food, labor, and indirect costs.
The report also shows that healthy food and beverage items continue to rise in popularity and lunch and breakfast participation is increasing. Moreover, the report reveals that school nutrition programs are taking on the “going green” trend, with more and more districts adopting eco-friendly practices including: utilizing energy efficient equipment; recycling; and using locally sourced food/supplies or green cleaning products.
However, the report shows that many districts are still planning to cut costs in their nutrition programs. Some of the cost cutting methods include: creating menu changes and more efficient services models; charging more for meals; putting out fewer choices; laying off staff; and decreasing marketing.
According to the report, the trend towards healthy food options will continue this fall, with district nutrition programs offering more whole grains, fruits and vegetables and cutting back on trans fats, added sugar, and sodium. Many school districts also plan on improving their nutrition programs by building awareness among students, teachers, and staff on nutrition and wellness, and by conducting renovations to increase the appeal and utility of the cafeteria space.
What's the big picture?
In order for childhood obesity prevention efforts to be effective, the approach needs to be broad: local and federal governments, families, medical providers, community centers, and schools all need to be involved. But children spend countless hours in schools. Therefore, schools are an ideal setting for children to eat healthy and learn about the importance of eating healthy foods to maintain a good weight, stay physically and mentally healthy, and get ready to learn.
The current childhood obesity epidemic has been responsible for a rise in adult-like ailments among children such as hypertension and high cholesterol , which in the past was very unusual. Given the alarming rates of childhood obesity in the U.S., even one school year with less nutritious food options can put a strain on the obesity prevention efforts that are currently underway.
Promoting Nutrition Awareness in Schools
September is a great month to promote awareness of the importance of a good nutrition to improving overall health and preventing cardiovascular disease. It is back-to-school time, which provides students and teachers alike with a “fresh start” on changing dietary habits. In addition, September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a time to learn about food and lifestyle choices that help reach ideal cholesterol levels. And September 28 is World Heart Day. This year’s theme will be “Know Your Risk,” to help people better understand their personal risk for cardiovascular disease.
Within the current childhood obesity context, there is debate on whether children with high cholesterol levels should be treated with “statins” or cholesterol-lowering drugs. Nevertheless, most doctors agree that lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of cardiovascular disease and obesity prevention and treatment in childhren, and part of that lifestyle modification includes eating healthy meals at home and at school.
To obtain a copy of the SNA report, contact SNA at servicecenter@schoolnutrition.org. To learn more about National Cholesterol Education Month, click here. And to learn more about World Heart Day, click here.
Source: "School Lunch Participation Increases, while Districts Cut Back on Trans Fats, Sodium and Added Sugar," SNA Press Release, August 13, 2008; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website; and World Heart Federation website.