by Marion Nestle
Sep
2
2008
Junk foods in schools–still there
Every now and then the CDC surveys the use of “competitive” (translation: junk) foods in public schools. The latest survey reports little change from 2004. About 80% of public schools let kids buy snacks or sodas during school hours, although what those items are varies widely. About 70% of schools sell sports drinks but only about 30% sell fruits and vegetables. Kids can buy bottled water in about 80% of public schools, which makes me wonder whatever happened to free water from drinking fountains. I’ve been in schools that do not sell competitive foods at all. Something to consider?