Health Info prepared by Public Health Vitalité Health Network March 2014

The school food policy…what is it for?

The school food policy The purpose of the school food policy is to ensure that healthier foods are served in schools and to inform the school community about the importance of healthy eating.

Are foods “good” or “bad”? Not really! The policy states instead that some foods are healthier than others while other foods should be eaten in moderation.

The school food policy includes three categories: Maximum nutritional value – Foods to be served on a daily basis Moderate nutritional value – Foods that can be served up to a maximum of twice a week Minimum nutritional value – Foods that should not be served in schools

Maximum nutritional value These are the best foods! They give you the vitamins, minerals and energy you need to learn and stay active all day long. They are served on a daily basis.

Moderate nutritional value These foods are not as nutritious as those in the maximum nutritional value category, but they also give you important vitamins and minerals. However they often contain more fat, sugar and/or salt. They can be served up to a maximum of twice a week.

Minimum nutritional value These foods contain very few vitamins and minerals. They also are high in fat, sugar and/or salt. This is why they should not be served in schools.

You also have a role to play! All members of the community have a role to play to ensure that healthy foods are served and great emphasis is placed on healthy eating in our schools. Your turn now!