May 24, 2013
News
Desserts Cut and Healthier Menu Items Introduced to U.I.S.D. Menu
By KGNS News
Large food corporations have increasingly begun to replace side menu items for children with healthier options.
Now, UISD is also taking part in the fight against childhood obesity.
Our Gina Benitez has more.
A leading dairy processor just recently cut out 26 million pounds of sugar from their chocolate milk and introduced "Tru Moo" their latest product. Going along with state and federal mandates, UISD dietitians have implemented this into their daily menu.
"There is only about ten grams of added sugar to the flavored milk where as compared to other flavored milks, there's maybe about 20 grams."
District officials hope to promote healthier lifestyles and are working towards preventing childhood obesity. Many menu items are including whole grains. Their pancakes, waffles, hot dog and hamburger buns, to name a few.
"There's something called the healthier school challenge and UISD wants to be a part of that and what we need to do is incorporate more whole grains, more fruits and vegetables and so we're heading towards that path."
Big changes were set in place this year, like no more desserts, for instance.
"This year, with the new analysis, we're eliminating cakes and cookies. So we're totally eliminating that and moving more towards fruits and vegetables."
And as for student reactions to one of the new products?
"No, we haven't had any complaints. The students are drinking the flavored milk as they would before."
Santos says there is a big debate to remove flavored milk altogether but if this is the only source of calcium and other nutrients some students receive, their health may be compromised.
"It's better to offer this...which is nutrient rich...than for them to have a soda or fruit drink."
