USDA weighs new, more restrictive school snacks rules

A federal agency has proposed new rules that if enacted would ban high-sugar, high-calorie snack foods in schools.

"They're actually more restrictive than the current regulations that California has in place," said Kerri Braverman, director of student nutrition services for the Vallejo City Unified School District.

The proposals by the U.S. Department of Agriculture would limit the fat, calorie, sugar and sodium contents on foods sold in schools. Both state and federal rules already exist for meals being served to students, but schools -- including Vallejo's -- often offer "a la carte" items on the side.

Because California is one of the more restrictive states when it comes to what schools can feed children, some of the proposed rules won't affect the district as much.

For example, the district does not serve deep-fried items, which will be banned by the new rules. Currently, Vallejo schools' french fries and similar items are baked.

However, the proposals would alter other parts of the district's nutrition services.

"There are things we sell now that wouldn't be compliant," Braverman said, citing Gatorade as an example.

High-sugar sports drinks like Gatorade would be prohibited under the new federal regulations.

The calorie restrictions for snacks would also change, with current rules allowing for 250 calorie portions, compared to the proposed 200 calories.

The new regulations generally target snacks and a la carte items -- things that usually don't make up much of the food volume the district serves because so many students take advantage of the free and reduced lunch program.

About 70 percent of district students quality for free and reduced lunch, Braverman said. Many students also receive other meals from schools, including breakfast, snacks and dinner, depending on the campus they attend.

Additionally, the district has very limited vending machines -- none of which serve soda. California banned junk food and soda in schools in 2005.

The regulations are open for 60 days of public comment before the USDA issues final rules.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. Contact Lanz Christian Bañes at (707) 553-6833 or Follow him on Twitter @LanzTimesH.