DepEd bans softdrinks, junk food in schools

MANILA, Philippines -  The Department of Education (DepEd) has banned the marketing of softdrinks and junk foods in public schools all over the country, in a bid to promote healthy eating among students and teachers.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones has issued a department order providing the policy and guidelines on healthy food and beverage choices in schools and all education department offices as outlined in Deped Order No.13 issued last March 14.

Briones said schools are good venues to promote a healthier lifestyle among Filipinos, especially the youth.

The DepEd said food classified under the “green” category such as unsweetened milk, unsweetened buko juice, water, rice, chicken, lean meat, fish and fresh fruits should always be available in school canteens.

On the other hand, foods that are classified under yellow category such as fruit juices, fried rice, bread using refined flour, biscuits, pancakes, sandwiches, processed food, and stir-fried vegetables should be served carefully.

Meanwhile, soft drinks, sports water, products containing caffeine, ice cream, cakes, donuts, french fries, instant noodles, chicken skin, bacon, junk food and canned fruits in heavy syrup should be totally prohibited in school canteens.

The DepEd said each school should develop its own menu to ensure that the food and drinks offered to students are healthy and nutritious.

The DepEd said consumption of unhealthy foods outside the school premises are at the discretion of the parents.

While the policy is limited to public schools, the DepEd said private schools are also encouraged to adopt the guidelines.