The US Senate has passed by unanimous consent new legislation that is designed to expand access to child nutrition programmes, reduce childhood hunger and improve the nutritional quality of school meals to ensure a healthy diet.
In passing the 'Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010' last week, the Senate has drawn praise from US trade association United Fresh, which has now urged the House to pass child nutrition legislation before the programmes expire on 30 September.
'The drive for healthier kids through increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables is something that United Fresh and the entire produce industry has pursued for many years now,' said United Fresh president and CEO Tom Stenzel.
'United Fresh commends Chairman Lincoln, Ranking Member Saxby Chambliss and the Senate Agriculture Committee and members of the Senate for their passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act,' he added. 'This bill provides a clear road map for healthier school meals and greater access to fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables.'
The association highlighted what it called 'important provisions' in the bill that reflect United Fresh priorities and recommendations, including a reimbursement of US$0.06 per school lunch tied to serving healthy meals consistent with dietary guidelines, including more fresh fruit and vegetables.
