School cafeteria operators, students ‘now embrace nutrition policy’

After a rocky start, school concessionaires have become enthusiastic supporters of the 2022 School Nutrition Policy, recognising it as a vital measure for tackling childhood obesity and promoting healthier lifestyles among students, according to the head of their association.

Speaking at the Schools Canteen Concessionaires Recognition and Support event on Wednesday, David Ifill, president of the Canteen Concessionaires Association, acknowledged that whilst the transition had been challenging, it proved to be “an opportunity to make a real positive difference in the lives of our students”.

The event was hosted by the Ministry of Education, Technological and Vocational Training, along with the Barbados Childhood Obesity Prevention Coalition, at the Savannah Beach Hotel.

Ifill acknowledged that while the transition to healthier food options was challenging in the early stages for both concessionaires and students, it was a necessary step given the rising health challenges facing the population.

“The transition has been a challenge and an opportunity to make a real positive difference in the lives of our students, their health, and their future. This policy is a crucial step towards creating a healthier generation. As school canteen operators, we knew it was essential not only to comply with the deadlines but to fully embrace them,” he said.

Ifill admitted that when the policy was first introduced, several operators were hesitant given the obvious economic impact of cutting out unhealthy, yet popular, food options. However, since its implementation, the policy has encouraged concessionaires to become more creative with their offerings, resulting in added benefits.

“One of the biggest changes we made was reimagining our menus…we began to focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and more balanced options. We learned to be creative with what we had available. It was about shifting mindsets,” he explained.

Andrew Begels Franklyn, one of several concessionaires rewarded during the evening for their dedication to the policy, said the transition wasn’t difficult for him as he always leaned towards healthier options. He added that while students may be hesitant at first, they are generally open to trying different foods.

He said: “When I first went to Daryll Jordan [Secondary School in St Lucy], the children were eating all kinds of things like chips and greasy burgers, but when I introduced something different, there were kids who were like: ‘Yes!’ Students asked: ‘Begels, do you run a restaurant or something? The food tastes real good.’ That was a big plus because they liked what I was cooking.

“The students are willing to try things; you just have to give them the challenge.”

Chief Education Officer Dr Ramona Archer-Bradshaw praised the cafeteria operators for their commitment, emphasising that the group is not merely there to “make a dollar”, but plays a crucial role in safeguarding students’ health.

She said: “I acknowledge and celebrate the vital role that canteen concessionaires play in supporting the Barbados School Nutrition Policy. The commitment that many of you have demonstrated in providing nutritious and balanced meals in our schools to support the health and wellbeing of our children has been nothing short of commendable.

“The effectiveness of this policy relies heavily on the collaboration and support of all canteen concessionaires. As providers of meals and snacks in our schools, you have a unique opportunity to influence the dietary choices of our children. By offering healthy, appealing, and diverse food choices, you can contribute significantly to fostering an environment where students develop good eating habits and where good nutrition is the norm, not the exception.”

Hedda Phillips Boyce, the chair of the School Nutrition Policy Implementation Committee and a Ministry of Education official, highlighted the successes achieved thus far. She noted that the committee, in collaboration with the ministry’s stakeholders, has now established guidelines for Phase 2 of the policy.

The second phase of the policy, launched in September, no longer requires ‘Water Wednesdays’ on which only water is served. Instead, only water and 100 per cent juice without artificial sweeteners may be sold, served, or brought into schools. Additionally, the rebranding and monitoring of school meals will continue, with nutritionist-approved healthy options available on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Schools are also expected to ensure that water is accessible to students throughout the day and during class time.

shamarblunt@barbadostoday.bb