New rules are changing the way some Florida students eat at school this year. Snack vending machines in Miami-Dade schools must now set aside half of their slots for healthy snacks that contain no more than 35% of their calories from fat, 10% saturated fat, a half gram of trans fat, and 240 mg of sodium.
Beverage machines must also dedicate more space to low-fat milk, water and 100% fruit juice. High-fructose corn syrup, saturated and trans fats must all be reduced in cafeteria lunches, and schools will offer free breakfasts to all students.
The changes came following recommendations by the district’s department of nutrition and vending machine operators, who pay US$2.7m annually for exclusive access in Miami-Dade schools.