Michelle Obama Proposes Ban On In-School Junk Food Marketing
WASHINGTON (CBSDFW.COM/AP) — The Obama administration is proposing new rules that would limit the marketing of unhealthy foods in schools.
"Our classrooms should be healthy places where our kids are not bombarded with ads for junk food," said First lady Michelle Obama.
The rules would phase out the advertising of sugary drinks and junk foods around campuses and ensure that other promotions in schools are in line with health standards that apply to school foods. The rules are expected to be announced Tuesday as a part of first lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move initiative to fight child obesity.
"If you can't sell it, you really ought not be able to market it," said Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack.
But Secretary Vilsack admits it's big business. He says companies spend almost $150-million dollars a year on marketing in schools. The changes would remove popular drink ads seen from school scoreboards and vending machines.
The proposal follows USDA regulations limiting calories, fats and sugars in foods sold in schools.
The administration also plans to expand a pilot program already in play in Dallas ISD. It allows districts that serve primarily low-income children, to serve free, healthy lunches and breakfast to all children -- regardless of need.
The White House estimates it could help as many as 9 million children gain access to health meals; boosting school performance.
(©2014 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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