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As of September 2011, all publicly-funded elementary and secondary schools in
Ontario must follow new guidelines for food and beverages sold in schools.
It includes nutrition standards for healthier foods and beverages. It applies
to food and beverages sold on school property:
- Cafeterias, vending machines, tuck shops
- Catered lunch programs
- Bake sales, sports events
The nutrition standards do not apply to lunches or snacks brought from home.
The policy is intended to:
- Help children practice what they learn about healthy eating in the classroom
- Teach children to make healthy choices
- Help children learn better
- Show children that the school cares about their health as well as their education
Food and beverages are now divided into three categories according to their nutrient content:
Sell Most:
Food and beverages in this category have the highest levels of essential nutrients and the
lowest amounts of sugar, fat, and sodium.
Some of the food and beverages that might fit into this category include:
- Fresh vegetables
- Unsweetened applesauce
- Plain yogurt
- Light cheddar cheese
- Whole grain bagels
- Chick peas
- Lean meatballs
- Pumpkin seeds
- Water, milk and 100% juice
Sell Less:
Food and beverages in this category have some essential nutrients but are also a
little higher in fat, sugar and/or sodium. These are food and beverages that
you can enjoy once in awhile as part of healthy eating. Food and beverages that
might fit into this category include:
- Dried fruit
- Baked potato chips
- White tortillas
- Popcorn
- Low fat pudding
- Lean deli meat
- Decaf coffee (only in secondary schools)
Not Permitted for Sale:
Food and beverages in this category contain few or no essential nutrients and
have high amounts of fat, sugar and/or sodium. Some food and beverages that might
fit into this category include:
- French fries
- Fruit rolls
- Cheese breads
- Doughnuts
- Ice cream
- Chicken wings
- Fish sticks
- Salted nuts
- Energy drinks
- Regular coffee
See your school board's Nutrition Policy for more details on how the School
Food and Beverage policy will be implemented in your school.
Contact & More Information
Contact the Huron County Health Unit at 519.482.3416.
After hours or in the event of a public health emergency, call 519.482.7077.
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