Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Schools Have a Smarter Snack Option in 2015
The launch of the USDA Smart Snacks in School program has created a challenge for schools to meet the national nutrition standards. Some school officials have complained about the costs because students are choosing to throw away foods rather than eat them. Others have experienced a decline in food sales.
"We can't force students to eat something they don't want," said Lyman Graham, a food service director near Roswell, NM.
Created by Cincinnati-based, Gold Medal Products Co., SunnyPop™ gives schools the opportunity to provide popcorn—a snack that's popular with students, yet still meets the national requirements.
Popcorn has always been a best-seller for schools. In fact, many schools actually had to stop selling popcorn in their lunch rooms because they didn't have a product that met the new standards.
"With SunnyPop™, it's the best of both worlds. It meets the needs of schools and also gives students what they want—a food that's fun and tastes good," says Gold Medal Vice-President, John Evans, Jr.
The hallmark of SunnyPop™ is its simplicity. It's just three ingredients: popcorn, oil and salt. And it offers some of the most sought-after nutrition benefits:
- whole grain
- gluten-free
- non-GMO
- 0g trans fat
A detailed chart is available, which outlines how SunnyPop™ compares to the Smart Snacks in School requirements.
Evans explained, "As a manufacturer, it's our responsibility to find ways to help schools overcome their challenges. And SunnyPop™ does just that. We look forward to seeing this popcorn served in schools across the country."
Media personnel and school officials are encouraged to contact Gold Medal at 800-543-0862 ext. 2384 for a consultation to further explain the benefits of SunnyPop™ and of course to taste test the popcorn.