PMA has signed on as a supporter of the National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity's Model Local School Wellness Policies on Physical Activity and Nutrition. PMA supports this initiative as the policies have recommendations concerning increased consumption of fruits and vegetables in schools as well as increased physical activities for schoolchildren.

Throughout the policy goals, produce is highlighted as an opportunity for schools to provide more healthy meals and snacks for students to help stem the obesity epidemic. In addition, in the Nutrition Education and Promotion component of the policies, it is suggested that participating schools include enjoyable, developmentally appropriate, culturally relevant activities such as taste testing, farm visits, and school gardens. The Food Marketing in Schools component of the policies also encourages the promotion of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.

Schools that implement nutrition guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are effective in preventing childhood obesity, according to research published in the American Journal of Public Health, reported the March 21 Food Institute Report. Researchers conducted height and weight measurements and assessed the dietary intake and physical activity level of 5,200 fifth grade students in public schools. Student comparisons were conducted by which school they attended. When compared to schools without nutrition programs, students in schools that incorporated a CDC-coordinated school health program exhibited:

• Lower overweight and obesity rates

• Higher intake of fruits and vegetables

• Less calorie intake from fat

• Higher nutritional quality intake

• Higher levels of physical activity

• Less participation in sedentary activities

Students in schools that incorporated only healthy menu policies did not have lower body weights or better dietary intake than students in schools without any nutrition policy.

The research suggests that solely offering healthy options may not be enough to motivate children to choose healthier items and schools need more integrated strategies to promote healthy eating.