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If You Serve It They Will Eat It
by Nicolle Haefeli
It has long been said, the foods kids love to eat are the worst for them to eat. Given the statistics on the rise in childhood obesity and diabetes, this would seem to be true. However, a study in the Winter 2007 issue of Review of Agricultural Economics found the opposite to be true. Kids are choosing fresh fruits, vegetables and lean meats such as turkey dogs over traditionally attractive foods such as french fries, chicken nuggets, and fruit cups.
The theory that you can't serve healthier meals because kids won't eat them is being tested and proven wrong, as well. Currently there are numerous Public school districts across the USA performing studies that are proving students will reach for healthier food items if they are offered. Research has found that the school districts serving the freshest, healthiest lunches saw no decrease in the number of lunches purchased and many schools were showing a large increase. Again confirming that students will choose and eat healthier foods, if offered.
In addition, studies are showing that more nutritious meals do not necessarily cost more to produce. There is a direct correlation in using locally grown produce when possible and the overall appeal of the school lunches to the students and parents. Currently there are many Farm-to-School programs successfully functioning all over our country.
However, buying from local producers is a process that sounds easier than it is. There are strict rules at the district level and a bidding process that forces them to buy from the lowest bidder regardless of where it comes from. The size of the district is also a factor as the ability to consistently supply large districts is often difficult for local producers. These are just a few of the issues that Jeffco Parents Focus on School Nutrition (JPFSN) look forward to exploring and promoting, including initiating and /or supporting legislation aimed at improving nutritional quality of school foods at the local, state and federal level.
Our group, JPFSN, is paused at a crossroads right now, with many exciting possibilities on the horizon. We now have representation on the Jeffco PTA board; Stephanie Herman is now the Health and Wellness Chair, accepting a position generously offered to us by the board. We look forward to continuing to partner with the Jeffco PTA on an ongoing basis.
Members of JPFSN, as well as Jeffco PTA leadership, were able to meet with Jeffco School District, including Cindy Stephenson, Superintendent, and Bob Smith, Chief Operating Officer, in January, discussing our main concerns and goals. Jeffco Food and Nutrition Services has been open to working with JPFSN efforts in improving the nutritional quality of all foods offered at Jeffco Schools. Following the retirement of Shirley Brooke, a new director for Food and Nutrition Services will be hired soon, and a member from JPFSN will be participating in the interview process for that position. We are encouraged with the opportunity to be a part of this process and are optimistic to have meaningful input into the final selection as JPFSN expects to be working closely with the candidate chosen in continued district level efforts.
With continued efforts and communication we hope to increase the number of Jeffco schools who have adopted the Jeffco PTA School Nutrition Resolution. This simple action will allow us to become a stronger united voice, therefore able to develop and launch new programs and standards.
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