Sometimes, information given by food manufacturers and the media can be difficult to interpret. In addition, the number of food products on the market for school canteens is expanding. As a result, there may come times when there is uncertainty about whether an item is appropriate or not for the canteen. The following steps may assist you in making an informed decision.
- Is the product registered with the Cool CAP Registered Product program or FOCiS Registered Product program?
- Ask the representative if the product has been assessed and registered as an appropriate product by the Tasmanian School Canteen Association Inc.or does it meet the nutrient criteria for product registration.
- Check the product against the categories in Table 1 – GREEN foods (every day foods); AMBER foods (select carefully); and RED foods (occasional foods). If appropriate, check the labels for further information if it is a commercial product.
- Read the ingredient list. Remember that labelling on packaged foods lists ingredients in descending order of amounts.
- Make note of the nutrition information panel claims, if any, e.g. low salt, no added salt, and be familiar with their meaning.
- If still uncertain, advice as to the appropriateness of other foods, snack items and beverages may be obtained from the Tasmanian School Canteen Association Inc., PO Box 169, SANDY BAY, TAS. 7005. Phone 6223 8023.
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