Two students, from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Brampton, decided to make their opinions heard regarding the legislation in Ontario to serve "healthy" food in schools.
Here is my opinion, as an Adult, Registered Dietitian and a Mother (whose child is in the school system and occasionally purchasing 'hot lunches' from the school).
To be fair, here is an excerpt of why the Ontario Government decided to implement this initiative.
- Ontario's new nutrition standards for food and beverages sold in schools will give our students healthier places to learn and help them perform better in school.
- Twenty-eight per cent of Ontario children between the ages of two and 17 are overweight or obese -- putting them at risk of diseases including diabetes. Less than half of Ontario kids, ages 12-19, eat the recommended daily minimum of fruits and vegetables.
My Opinion, As an Adult
I rarely, if at all, ate from the cafeteria when I was in high school. I credit my parents, who always encouraged me and yes often prepared for me, a home made lunch. I didn't have to buy food, because my parents provided it for me. And if I did eat out, it was rare, not routine and that makes all the difference when it comes to healthy eating.
My Opinion, As a Registered Dietitian
I am not surprised to hear this negative response from high school students. This is a difficult age to introduce such legislation. In my opinion, the legislation will have growing pains. It will benefit students currently in the primary, elementary school system, as they will learn to eat these foods and find healthy foods can taste good!
STUDENTS HAVE TO BE EDUCATED!
Orange juice can re-hydrate you just as well as Gatorade!
My Opinion, As a Parent
My son is in JK and I allow him to participate in the Hot Lunches program at school, as I am on parent council and proceeds of the lunches go back to support school initiatives. However I limit his participation to twice per month. Parents have a responsibility to teach children that these foods are "treat" meals and should be consumed in moderation. A child eating a "healthy" version of chicken fingers or pizza will not be able to distinguish it from a "non-healthy" version from your local community food establishments. Why the options at school are considered "healthier" should be discussed in the classroom and at home.
