Food to Replace "Junk Food" in school Vending Machines USDA FAS

Food to Replace "Junk Food" in school Vending Machines USDA FAS

Education Minister Mariastella Gelmini has announced that fresh fruit and vegetables are to replace snacks in school vending machines. Italian school kids are among the plumpest in Europe and the Ministry aims to form good eating habits while also supporting local farmers. Despite its fame as the cradle of the widely recommended Mediterranean diet, Italy is facing a rising child obesity problem. Italy‟s Barilla Food Group has just launched a special health & food initiative called GIOCAMPUS which is similar to First Lady Michele Obama‟s “Let‟s Move” campaign targeted at obese youth.