Nutrition standards for schools in Broward County

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Since November 1st, 2014, school districts in Broward County (27.5% Latino) have been making healthy changes in regard to what is offered in vending machines and school lunches.

Sodas, candy bars and the like are not allowed according to nutrition standards set in place. The new healthier snack items or competitive foods must follow at least one of these rules to be sold:

• At least 50 percent of grains are whole grains.
• The first ingredient must be fruit, vegetables, dairy or protein.
• Contain at least ¼ cup of fruit and vegetables.
• Contain at least 10 percent of the recommended daily amount of calcium, potassium, vitamin D or fiber.

Work is still needing to be done, according to nutrition advocates that criticise the district to still allow fundraising efforts that sell candy bars and unhealthy items.

Latinos are more likely to be obese than their peers. Increasing healthier food access and limiting high-calorie, high-sugary snacks may be one way to help Latino kids develop healthy diets early on.

Chair of the Nutrition and Fitness Task Force of Broward County, Ellen Feiler said in an article that, “Eating habits start at a young age and usually last a lifetime,” she explained, ” It’s important to encourage healthy eating from the beginning.” Feiler is also the Director of Health Promotion and Social Marketing at the Florida Department of Health in Broward County.