A bill is on the move through Congress that promises to revolutionize the school lunch menu. Greasy pizza and high calorie deserts maybe less frequent lunchtime treats for school children under the wide ranging nutrition bill approved by a senate panel. Senator Tom Harkin in behind the effort to get more healthy choices on school menus and in vending machines. Harkin says what we’re trying to do is address the obesity epidemic by getting better, nutritious foods in our schools, cutting down on a lot of the fats, salts and sugar.
Georgia Senator Saxby Chambliss protested part of the bill that pays for farm to school programs by reducing money paid to farmers for environmentally friendly farming practices. Chambliss says the administration says that cuts to EQIP will have no practical effect on the ground. He disagrees, going on to say the cut will mean fewer producers will receive assistance to address the conservation and environmental challenges they face.
The legislation approved by the Senate Ag Committee would give uniform standards for all food in schools and give students healthier meal options.
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