$12m fund to boost healthy food in schools

From the start of 2007, New Zealand schools will be able to apply for a portion of a $3m-a-year fund for promoting healthy food.

Schools and early childhood centres will be able to apply for support in promoting fruit for students, water-only environments and healthier foods in canteens.

A health spokesperson for the Greens said the fund was a first step in ‘cleaning up' New Zealand’s schools. A lack of national standards and financial pressures have led to schools selling food that undermines children’s health and their ability to learn.

A survey by the Greens earlier in the year found pies, doughnuts, chips and fizzy drinks to be staples in school canteens. These foods not only contribute to obesity but sometimes shorten children’s ability to concentrate.

This fund, combined with new nutrition guidelines, will require schools to sell drinks and food that are healthy. The fund could include more training for teachers on food matters and information for parents.