DepEd to strictly implement color-coding of food, beverages in schools

Summary

The Department of Health has introduced a color-coding system for food sold in school canteens to promote healthier eating. The scheme categorizes foods into three groups: green, for nutrient-rich options like fruits and vegetables; yellow, for foods with moderate levels of fat, sugar, and salt, sold twice a week; and red, which includes junk foods and soft drinks that are prohibited. The Department emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition for students, recommending balanced meals for both underweight and overweight children. Additionally, parents are advised to avoid street food for their children's health and safety.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Department of Health has implemented a color coding system for foods sold in school canteens to guide healthier food choices for students.
• 😀 Green category foods, high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt, such as fruits and vegetables, must always be available in school canteens.
• 😀 Yellow category foods, containing moderate amounts of fat, sugar, and salt, should only be sold twice a week in school canteens.
• 😀 Red category foods, such as junk food and soft drinks, are prohibited from being sold in school canteens.
• 😀 The color coding system is mandated by DepEd order number 13, aiming to promote healthier eating habits among students.
• 😀 The Department of Health has reminded schools to focus on preparing and selling only nutritious and healthy foods to prevent health issues.
• 😀 Parents are encouraged to prepare meals based on their children’s nutritional needs, such as foods with coconut milk for underweight children.
• 😀 For overweight children, a diet with vegetables alongside regular exercise is recommended.
• 😀 Parents should avoid preparing excessive amounts of food and only provide what their children can consume to prevent food waste and health risks.
• 😀 Street foods outside the school should be avoided for students' health and safety, as they might not meet nutritional standards.
• 😀 Regular monitoring is conducted in school canteens to ensure adherence to the guidelines set by the Department of Health and DepEd.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the color coding scheme released by the Department of Health?

The color coding scheme was released to guide school canteens on the types of food they should serve to students, ensuring the food is nutritious and healthy.

How does the color coding scheme categorize food in school canteens?

The food is categorized into three colors: green for foods high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt (like fruits and vegetables), yellow for foods with moderate amounts of fat, sugar, and salt (sold twice a week), and red for foods with little nutritional value such as junk food and soft drinks (which are not allowed).

What is the role of the school canteen according to the script?

The school canteen provides nourishment for the body, offering food that supports the health and well-being of students.

What specific food items are classified under the green category in the color coding scheme?

Foods in the green category are those that are high in nutrients and low in fat, sugar, and salt, such as fruits and vegetables.

What food items fall under the yellow category, and how often can they be sold?

The yellow category includes foods that contain moderate levels of fat, sugar, and salt. These foods can only be sold twice a week.

Why are red category foods banned in school canteens?

Red category foods are banned because they have little nutritional value and include unhealthy options like junk foods and soft drinks.

What is recommended for parents to prepare for their children based on their nutritional needs?

Parents are advised to prepare foods that meet the specific nutritional needs of their children, such as foods with coconut milk for underweight children and vegetables for overweight children. Regular exercise is also encouraged.

What is the suggested approach for parents in terms of food portioning for their children?

Parents are encouraged to prepare only the exact amount of food that their children can consume to avoid waste and ensure proper nutrition.

What advice is given regarding street foods for students?

Parents and students are advised to avoid consuming street foods sold outside of school due to health and safety concerns.

What is the significance of the Department of Health's reminder to schools regarding food in canteens?

The Department of Health’s reminder emphasizes the importance of preparing only nutritious and healthy foods to prevent diseases and ensure the well-being of students.