Improving Child Nutrition in Schools Focus of Senate Ag Hearing
Preparations are being made to reauthorize federal childhood nutrition programs.
Compiled by staff
Published: Apr 1, 2009
The Senate Ag Committee on Tuesday heard testimony focused on improving the nutritional environment in schools, particularly as it relates to food and beverages sold outside of the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs. The Committee is holding a series of hearings in preparation for the reauthorization of federal childhood nutrition programs, which expire later this year. Witnesses represented the food and beverage industry, early childhood health advocacy, the National School Boards Association and the National Parent Teacher Association.
In an opening statement, Ranking Member Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., said, "There is no doubt that schools play an important role in shaping nutrition habits of young children. School cafeterias, gymnasiums and playgrounds are important venues to teach children about healthy eating and exercise. The new MyPyramid for Kids created at the U.S. Department of Agriculture has been used in schools across the country to teach children about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans as well as the need for daily exercise."
Tuesday's hearing focused on food sold in competition to these programs, including food sold in vending machines, as a la carte items, and through school fundraising activities. The committee plans to evaluate the proper federal role in these decisions, as well as review the various approaches to improve the nutritional environment in schools.
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