Vending Machines
The national debate over vending machines in public schools has reached Idaho.
A recently introduced bill would limit beverage sales at middle and high schools to milk, 100% juice and water, while completely removing vending machines from elementary schools.
At my son's elementary school there are no machines, so the problem has already been addressed at some schools.
I laughed at a quote in the article from a high school principal: "You restrict the machines, kids will still go to the 7-Eleven to get what they want. Then, 7-Eleven rather than the schools will benefit." Typical bureaucrat, always thinking of his budget first.
The bottom line in this debate, however, is that parents aren't teaching their children about nutrition. In our house, my kids enjoy the occasional root beer, graham cracker, or Tootsie Pop. But we call them treats, not breakfast or lunch. My kids know all about empty calories and sugar highs, and they know that the best snacks are things like carrots, apples, nuts, water and milk.
This is really basic stuff, and it baffles me that all children aren't learning this in their homes.
A recently introduced bill would limit beverage sales at middle and high schools to milk, 100% juice and water, while completely removing vending machines from elementary schools.
At my son's elementary school there are no machines, so the problem has already been addressed at some schools.
I laughed at a quote in the article from a high school principal: "You restrict the machines, kids will still go to the 7-Eleven to get what they want. Then, 7-Eleven rather than the schools will benefit." Typical bureaucrat, always thinking of his budget first.
The bottom line in this debate, however, is that parents aren't teaching their children about nutrition. In our house, my kids enjoy the occasional root beer, graham cracker, or Tootsie Pop. But we call them treats, not breakfast or lunch. My kids know all about empty calories and sugar highs, and they know that the best snacks are things like carrots, apples, nuts, water and milk.
This is really basic stuff, and it baffles me that all children aren't learning this in their homes.
Permalink posted by Phil at 11:40 PM
3 Comments:
I agree. This really is basic nutrition we're talking about, and kids at the middle and high school levels should be able to tell the difference. I don't see why there would even be a need for vending machines in an elementary school other than for the teachers.
Personally, I have a problem with them including fruit juices with what's allowed. I'm diabetic and know first hand that most fruit juices have almost as much sugar (natural or not, its still sugar) as some sodas.
Phil, I think the problem is deeply rooted in our commercial culture. As you know, most kids watch thousands of food commercials each years.
Those ads are put together by masters of persuasion. Little kids -- as well as many parents -- are no match for them.
I agree Jeff. Even juice shouldn't be allowed in the vending machines.
u r moo
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