M-DCPS students kick off the new year without soda

MIAMI –Miami-Dade County students will usher in the New Year with a healthy drink alternative – water. The District’s ban on soda and other sugary beverages begins January 2.In support of the Superintendent’s Health and Wellness Initiative, passed in November, the District’s Department of Food and Nutrition will implement healthy food and beverage guidelines by discontinuing soda sales on the a la carte lines at senior high schools. The soda will be replaced with 16-ounce bottles of water that will be sold at the same price.

The District is offering more health-conscious choices in cafeterias system-wide as well. Students and teachers can opt for more daily selections of fresh fruit and vegetables, premium salads and sandwiches including popular wraps with lower fat ingredients. Meatless entrees and vegetarian items are offered with more being added to increase variety. Beverage choices consist of 100 percent fruit juice; reduced, low fat or skim milks, and sports drinks.

Combating obesity and decreasing risk factors for chronic diseases begins with good nutritional choices and regular physical activity at school and home. Learning to make healthy choices is an integral part of education. Offering healthy meals in the cafeteria provides a connection between the classroom and the cafeteria, as the cafeteria serves as a learning laboratory for making these food choices.

The initiative authorizes the Superintendent to establish healthy beverages and food guidelines and mandate physical education at all elementary and middle schools as integral components to address student health.