Should Food Companies sponsor School Programs?

[David]

Is there an inherent conflict of interest, or during these tough times, is corporate
social policy, something that we should want?

What do you think about this timely and controversial topic? Let's talk.

[Diana Young, RD, LD/N, CDE]

I'm still reeling over Coca-cola and The American Dietetic Association teaming up. I just don't think its a good idea and I have found that many dietitians agree.

I would like to hear what others have to say.

[John Obraza]

That is like Heroin dealers and methadone clinics forming a union to increase their profit margins!
ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!

[Diana Young, RD, LD/N, CDE]

Marion Nestle words of wisdom from her Food Politics blog:

http://www.foodpolitics.com/2008/03/ok-time-to-talk-about-the-ameri...

[John Obraza]

I say NO...we all know how well having the soda machines improved the health of our children at school. The problem with this is the schools get money for these sponsorships and are reluctant to give up the bucks even after it has been shown that the promoted food or drink is unhealthful or harmful. Once you accept money from anyone, be it the Federal Government or Kellogg's, they OWN a piece of you.

[David]

I agree--this is straddling the fine line between actual and perceived bribery. A quid-pro-quo if you'd like. It's one thing to lobby, but to have food companies--and I use that term loosely because they are promoting junk and other unhealthy food--influence public policy, there's no integrity left in the public policy system.

The more that the politicians and health professionals scream about the overweight and obesity epidemic, when you read stories about Diana's observation about Coca-Cola and the ADA and how Nestle is influencing kid's school nutrition programs, I agree with John, it is exactly like Heroin dealers and methadone clinics forming a union to increase their profit margins.

[Lisa Nelson]

Great discussion! I have to agree with Diana - definitely a mixed message having ADA team up with Coca-Cola.

[SpinDiva]

Wow this is the craziest thing I have ever heard. I do remember in my daughters middle school before they removed the soda machines and replaced them with flavored waters and "protein" shakes that the principle was saying "we're going to loose a lot of money because the kids wont buy water and milk shake." Well then I guess you'll have to find money elsewhere and not in our children's diet. I am all for schools teaming up with local farms or farmer's markets. At least what they get is home grown, fresh, and supports the local farming families.

[Diana Young, RD, LD/N, CDE]

For information purposes, Here is the list of corporate sponsors for the American Dietetic Association.

[Lisa Newton]

I remember reading an article not too long ago about McDonald's running an ad on the back of a school's report card for a free happy meal. The school said the ad off set the cost of the printing and McDonald's said the kids did have other choices beside a burger and fries. But, come on, how many kids are going to choose a salad when fries are available. Or maybe they'll choose milk instead of soda. I don't think so.

[Chuck Bartok]

Hurray for SpinDiva's response.
Expose our Children to REAL Food and help the Local Economy.
Local produce is Best!

I grew up in the 50's
MOM sent us off to School with FRESH Lunch
packed Daily.

My children grew up in the 70' and 80's
Same Thing. My wife packed Fresh lunch daily.
Mostly all HOME GROWN
meat and Veggies
Almost everyone can provide Fresh veggies Year round

No "allowance money" for Junk