Goodbye chocolate bars and potato chips in public schools. The federal government has unveiled an initiative seeking to ensure the nation’s students will have healthier food options during the school day.
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Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced Thursday under the new USDA “Smart Snacks in School” nutrition standards, schools will offer students healthy options throughout school cafeterias, vending machines and snack bars.
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The agency is promoting more whole grains, low fat dairy, fruits, vegetable and leaner protein. The plan only affects foods sold during the school day and not at after-school sports events or special fundraisers.
For example, foods now must have 0 grams of trans fats and no more than 10 percent of total calories from saturated fat (except for reduced fat cheese, nuts, seeds and dried food products, among a few others).
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Goodbye donuts and chocolate bars under the new system and hello light popcorn, low-fat tortilla chips and granola bars.
Entrée items can be no more than 350 calories and snack items and side dishes must have no more than 200 calories per item. Additionally, a grain product must have at least 50 percent whole grains by weight.
Elementary and middle school foods and beverages must be caffeine free, although high schoolers are allowed caffeine.
Additionally, drinking water must be made available to children at no charge where lunch is being served.
Do you think it's about time for healthier food options or do you say let them eat cake? Tell us in the comments.
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