May 28-Sodexo has signed on to the Alliance for a Healthier Generation's School Beverage and Competitive Food Guidelines, becoming the first foodservice management company to do so. The Alliance, a joint initiative of the American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton Foundation, seeks to reduce childhood obesity in the United States by 2015.
By joining the Alliance, Sodexo promises to only offer à la carte items that follow the Alliance's guidelines. Approved snacks will have no more than 35% calories from fat, 10% calories from saturated fat, no more than 35% sugar by weight and no more than 230 milligrams of sodium. In addition, snacks cannot contain trans fats.The Alliance's guidelines apply to foods sold through the USDA's school breakfast and lunch programs.
"If we are going to create a healthier environment for today's youth, we need industry leaders like Sodexo to make commitments to provide access to healthier food options at school," said former President Bill Clinton in a press release.
Sodexo officials said the agreement is a good match. "The Alliance for a Healthier Generation's guidelines fit perfectly alongside our efforts in nutrition education, locally sourced produce and instilling a lifelong appreciation for good nutrition," said Lorna Donatone, president of Sodexo School Services.