The limits put on unhealthy lunch and snack food in schools might seem like a hardship for those who are used to starting the day with a doughnut and a Coke, but the new federal rules are good for everyone.
School lunch was the first affected by new federal rules. More fruits and vegetables, less fat and sugar are mandated. New rules targeting vending machines, snack carts and kiosks on school grounds and club fundraisers and other events on school property will go into effect next school year.
Instead of cookies, cake, sugary punch and candy served or sold at such events, participants will get popcorn, trail mix, natural fruit juice and other less harmful items.
Schools now must limit candy and soda sales to non-lunch periods, in non-dining areas. But some students eat their snacks while walking around campus, so that rule has been difficult to enforce. Last year, Davis High in Kaysville, Utah, and Box Elder High in Brigham City, Utah, were fined $15,000-$20,000 for violating the rule.
Many schools already have changed the offerings in vending machines, but the rules governing school-supported events will come as a shock to many PTA and school-club officers and advisers who have long depended on sugary treats as a regular feature.
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