VicHealth has applauded the ACT Government's decision to phase out sugary drinks in vending machines in government schools by the end of 2014 as part of its Fresh Tastes: Healthy Food at School program announced today.
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The Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth) has applauded the ACT Government’s decision to phase out sugary drinks in vending machines in government schools by the end of 2014 as part of its Fresh Tastes: Healthy Food at School program announced today (21 February).
"We’re thrilled to see the ACT Government taking such a strong lead and putting the health of school children first. This a bold step in the fight to change unhealthy diets that contribute to children becoming overweight and obese, as well as contributing to poor dental health," said VicHealth CEO Jerril Rechter.
"This initiative will reduce the amount of extra sugar that children consume, it will also increase availability, access and promotion of healthy food and drink choices – such as water.
"Cutting out sugary drinks in schools helps to reinforce the great work teachers are doing around nutrition and lifestyle education, where the focus is on growing, cooking and eating healthy food and drink. Kids won’t be getting mixed messages any more when they come out of class and go to the vending machine for a drink," said Ms Rechter.
The ACT Government move is supported by the Australian Dietary Guidelines for Children and Adolescents which recommend choosing water as a drink and limiting sugary drinks.
