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Trinidad and Tobago (TT) has updated it’s school nutrition policy to combat childhood obesity.
Key aspects of the updated policy include:
* Healthy Beverage Options: Only 100% fruit juices, low-fat milk, and blended vegetable/fruit drinks (without added sugars or artificial sweeteners) will be offered in schools.
* Nutritional limits for Snacks: Clear limits on calories, sugar, fat, and sodium in pre-packaged snacks.
* Balanced Meals: Schools are encouraged to provide meals with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and appropriate starches, prepared using healthy cooking methods (baking, grilling, steaming, boiling).
* Marketing Restrictions: Restrictions on the marketing and promotion of unhealthy foods and beverages in schools.
* Nutritional Checklist: A five-point checklist for all snacks and meals, excluding energy drinks and artificial sweeteners.
* UPP Restrictions: Addresses the marketing of ultra-processed products.
context & Background:
* The initiative was announced by Education Minister Dr. Michael Dowlath and Health Minister dr. Lackram Bodoe on January 9th.
* The Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and the NCD Alliance have been advocating for these types of policies since 2018, urging regional governments to implement PAHO/WHO recommendations.
* More than 30% of school-aged children in TT are overweight or obese, and the majority of the population doesn’t consume enough fruits and vegetables.
* TT is joining other Caribbean nations (Jamaica, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda) in implementing robust school food policies.
* The HCC is working with regional groups to share experiences and improve school nutrition policies.
The overall goal is to address the “silent pandemic” of childhood obesity and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
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