Why do we need to make this change in schools?
There has been a lot of research showing that healthy eating by children and teenagers promotes better growth and intellectual development. Schools have an important role to play in helping students lead healthier lives, including teaching students the skills to make healthy choices.
Don't we already have a nutrition policy in TLDSB?
Our Nutrition Policy promotes healthy eating messages and healthy food choices in all schools in the Board. The new Standards will be an important next step in creating healthier schools.
What are the major changes to food being sold in schools?
The Ministry offers a useful document Nutrition Standards for Ontario Schools that lists foods allowed and not allowed for sale in schools. These standards follow the Canada's Food Guide and ensure that the food and beverages sold in schools help in students' healthy growth and development. Food and beverages sold in all school venues (e.g. cafeterias, vending machines, tuck shops), through all programs (e.g., catered lunch programs) and at all events (e.g. bake sales) must meet new specific nutrition standards. At least 80 per cent of all food choices available for sale must have higher levels of essential nutrients and lower amounts of fat, sugar, and sodium. Products that contain few or no essential nutrients or contain high amounts of fat, sugar, and sodium will not be sold in schools.
How does this affect vending machines in elementary schools?
The Ministry of Education has prepared a useful Q and A to answer your questions on this topic.
When will this happen?
Trillium Lakelands District School Board is implementing a phased-in approach with full implementation of the Food and Beverage Standards to occur September 1, 2011. Beginning in September 2010, items for sale in school cafeterias will begin to reflect some of the more healthy choices promoted in the new standards.
Check out the 100% Healthy Club site
Where can I get more information?
Healthy Schools Recognition Program 2011-2012 - Submit your pledge by Apirl 5, 2012
Ministry of Education Healthy Schools Webpage
Ministry of Education School Food and Beverage Policy Interactive Website
Ministry of Education - Setting the Standard for Healthy Eating in Schools
Trillium Lakelands District School Board Nutrition Policy
Trillium Lakelands District School Board Nutrition Procedure
Ministry of Education School Food and Beverage Policy
Ministry of Education - Transfat Regulation Act
Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit
www.hkpr.on.ca
1-866-888-4577
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
www.simcoemuskokahealth.org
Call your Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or toll free 1-877-721-7520