Junk Food to be Limited, but Not Banned in Utah Schools

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) Vending machines will still be allowed in Utah schools, but they'll have to be stocked with healthier snacks, according to a new rule being written by the Utah State Board of Education. Board member Teresa Theurer believes the rule won't hurt vending machine profits for schools:

"It's not going to stop a school from making a contract with them, it's just they're not going to sell as much soda - especially soda with caffeine so they can get the kids addicted early on," says Theurer.

The proposed rules prohibit sugary-sodas and candies from being sold during school hours and mandate more calorie-conscious items in vending machines at all grade levels. Schools with existing soda contracts won't have to comply with the rules until those contracts expire. Some board members want the state to offer cash to school districts that lose money from vending contracts as a result of the limits. Board Member Thomas Gregory disagrees:

"Because I believe that does not reward districts that have been doing the right thing all along," says Gregory.

The State Board of Education decided to create new rules about junk food after Utah received a failing grade for its vending machine policies from a national advocacy group. The new rules will receive final approval at a future board meeting.

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