Should changes be made to the regulations for foods, served in public schools?



Should changes be made to the regulations for foods, served in public schools?

Introduction

Regulations for foods, served in public schools are a matter of great concern as it is essential for the purpose of creating a healthier lifestyle for children studying in public schools. The government has supported several children through the free education and free food program. But the quality of this food is not at par with the standard of the food quality approved by nutritionists so it needs to be changes. The foods do not contain fresh fruits, green vegetables, pulses or right amount of any nutrition filled foods so it is required to change the menu as differently as it can be so that proper nutrition can be given. This is not right since it can result in several health issues and so it is crucial that there be a change in the regulations for food served in public schools.

Thesis Statement: Food leads to healthy mind and body, healthy mind and body leads to education, Education leads to development. Which means ultimately a healthy food can lead to development. So it is very important to eat well and hence change in regulations is essential.

History and Status of the Issue

The program of free education in public schools has been there for quite a long time and the pressure on these schools is significantly growing since the number of children entering and enrolling the public schools is significantly growing. All of this results in making it very difficult for the government to ensure appropriate levels of nutrition in the food served in these public schools all around the nation (B. Karen Wednesday, 2011).

In this way the present status of the issue is that the food served in the public schools is not at par with the quality of the food and nutrition levels that is required by growing children. There is a need for change in regulation of quality of food served in public schools in order to make it fit for children. The lack of nutrition in food is resulting in the following problems:

Problem 1: Health issues like obesity

Health issues like obesity are rampant due to low levels of nutrition in food served in public schools. Childhood obesity is a serious disaster in today's world as it is on the reverse spectrum of as eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa, but still carries with it serious health implications that can affect an individual throughout their lifetime. One specific factor playing a role in childhood obesity is the fact that the food eaten by children is not nutritious.

Childhood obesity has increased dramatically over the last three decades, and conditions in many communities continue to act as barriers to healthy eating and adequate physical activity. Childhood obesity is a serious health problem that has adverse and potentially long-lasting consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Perhaps most shocking, life expectancy for today's children ...