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AMA Victoria welcomes healthy food in school canteens
AMA Victoria President Dr Mark Yates today welcomed the introduction of new regulations on the types of food available from public school canteens.“As a parent and a doctor I am pleased the State Government is making healthy food the easy option in schools,” Dr Yates said.
“This is a very positive step. The growing problem of obesity, in particular in school children, is a major concern to AMA Victoria.
“By providing mostly healthy food in canteens it will help teach children to make the right food choices.”
Dr Yates said the complete ban on confectionery in school canteens was particularly positive. However, given the seriousness of the obesity problem, he said it was concerning it would not be in place for another two years.
“Even though the ban does not come into force for two years, that does not mean schools can’t act now.
“Childhood obesity is a serious issue in Victoria and it is important schools act on these new regulations as soon as possible.”
Dr Yates also urged schools to use healthy alternatives for fundraising activities.
“We need to make healthy food the norm instead of junk food and these new regulations are a step in the right direction.”
In addition, Dr Yates urged parents to ensure they were setting their children up to become healthy adults by also providing healthy and nutritious food at home and in lunchboxes.
Dr Yates said the next step in the fight against childhood obesity would be a ban on advertising and promotion of junk food to children.
Victorian Medical Directory
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