Childhood obesity is a major issue in the United States. The New York Department of Health did some research to see if they could encourage students to buy fruits and veggies instead of junk food.They thought the problem was the cost, but they soon discovered that it was all about the presentation and marketing of healthy foods that boosted sales. Good lighting, prominent locations, and verbally asking students to purchase fruit or juice boosted sales a lot!
Many schools aren't sure how to tackle the issue of growing childhood obesity. Some think that they should just cut out cookies and french fries completely, but others argue that children will just get their fix elsewhere. The Department of Agriculture has been given $2 million to conduct more research on healthier food options. Several ideas to decrease child obesity are: smaller portions, paying in cash, or allowing parents to limit what their children can buy on their lunch card.
I don't buy lunch in the cafeteria, but I have been through the lunch line, and I have to say that the presentation of fruits/veggies or healthy entrees is not good at all. It's hard to expect kids to pick healthy foods when the cookies are right next to the cash register and there are lights shining on the french fries. I think it would definitely help if healthier food options were placed in a more prominent location or the lunch ladies encouraged students to buy them.
Read the article here.
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