Nutritionists concerned over unhealthy canteen food

Star: KUALA LUMPUR: Prohibited food and drinks are still being sold in school canteens and this is worrying nutritionists and dieticians.
Health Ministry Family Health Development Division principal assistant director Rokiah Don said it was important that canteen operators abide by guidelines set out in the Education Ministry’s school canteen guidebook.
According to the guidelines, canteens are not allowed to sell, among others, drinks with added colouring, titbits, sweets, and preserved fruits.
“It is important to ensure that healthy and nutritious food is prepared for the children,” she said in her talk at the Adolescents and Nutrition seminar held in conjunction with Nutrition Month Malaysia 2007.
Health Ministry dietician Noor Safiza Mohamad Nor said hawkers were normally seen peddling their products outside schools.
She said she had come across situations where a large number of students rushed out of the school compound to purchase ice-blended drinks after their co-curriculum activities.
“This is worrying. Teachers can play a role by organising interesting projects or assignments that promote healthy eating habits,” she added.