Competitive Foods Policy Recommendations to USDA and School Districts

In December of 2010, Congress passed the Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act giving the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) the authority to regulate all foods sold in schools both in and out of the school meals program. This is the first time USDA has been given the authority to regulate "competitive foods" - foods sold in vending machines, schools stores, a la carte lines, etc, though to date there is a patchwork of local and state policies in existence around the country. Advocates for national standards argue they are crucial to improving the school nutrition environment and curbing the obesity epidemic. This presentation will examine research findings from literature, existing policies and a health impact assessment conducted on competitive foods to inform major policy decisions. The presenter will discuss the policy recommendations resulting from the findings and the possible implications of those policies. Finally, the presenter will also address several promising practices aimed towards schools and school districts that have proven effective in making the transition to a healthier competitive foods environment.