Food Police

Have you noticed the media coverage recently about “lunchbox police”?  I recently read that teachers will have the power to inspect lunchboxes and confiscate chips, lollies and sugary treats until the end of the day.

I think anything that encourages kids to eat healthy food  or exercise is great, but I have to wonder if some of these controls are a bit over the top and shifting the responsibility.  A new child-care policy in some NSW day-care centres even restricts apples and sultanas.  How about “AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY”?

Some schools and kinders have also banned birthday cakes, due to the number of kids having allergies, but Anaphylaxis Australia has a great idea – Have a “Treat Box” that is used for special occasions like birthdays.  The box is filled with safe treats to select from when required.  They also suggest parents provide cup cakes in a clearly labeled container with the child’s name on it, which can be given to the child with food allergies when a non-allergic child brings in a birthday cake.

Sounds like a great solution to me – what do you think?  I’d also love to hear if anyone has any great nut and gluten free recipes to share.

3 Responses to “Food Police”

  1. tamkat  on July 1st, 2009

    I just read that an apple has more antioxidants than half a punnet of blueberries, so I’ll keep eating them, and I think some schools and kinders need to lighten up a little. Plus, blueberries are so expensive!!

  2. Happyhealthy  on July 21st, 2009

    I just found a gluten free recipe in a magazine I was reading for Gluten-free raisin and cinnamon bread:

    Place 500g gluten free bread flour in a bowl with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 3 tablespoons raisins.

    Separately, mix yeast with 450 ml warm water. Add to bread mix, using electric better to combine 3 minutes or until smooth. Transfer dough to a lightly greased loaf tin. Cover and leave to rise for 30-40 mins. Bake for 45 mins until golden brown. Brush with two tablespoons honey and serve.

  3. Sue  on July 30th, 2009

    I would agree that lunchbox police is over the top and definitely putting the responsibility in the wrong place. My kids are only in Kindy and Pre-primary and I make their lunch. I would be most disturbed if this was happening in my school.

    I think education for children on health and nutrition is very important and think a more positive approach would be better.


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