The Prince Edward Island Healthy Eating Alliance encouraged Islanders of all ages to eat healthy the week of Oct.5-11, and to continue eating well for years to come.
The alliance participated in a variety of activities during the week, including the Fall Flavour's Farm Day in the city where it set up stands to promote better eating habits.
Kelsey Kennedy, the alliance’s assistant co-ordinator, said it is trying to encourage all Islanders to take steps towards healthier eating.
“It's intended for the general population, the whole Island. Eating healthy is at home at school and at work so we're trying to encompass all of those areas.”
Although the week only lasted six days, Kennedy said they encourage Islanders, especially the younger generations, to continue the better habits throughout their lifetime.
The alliance is doing this by working with school boards on policies to guide foods served in the school cafeterias and vending machines.
The provincial government is also helping. It provided $100,000 this year to expand and enhance school breakfast and snack programs in schools. It will enlarge menu choices, increase the number of days the programs are offered, fund program coordinators and purchase equipment and supplies.
Kennedy said by starting to promote healthy life styles in the school, it could have a life-long effect.
“It’s modelling. The children are being exposed to these healthy foods, which is a factor, and they're being encouraged to try them. There's also the education component as well, so children are learning to eat healthy at school.”
Kody MacLaren, a Grade 12 student at Morell Regional High School, said he thinks the school changing its eating policy is a good choice.
The policy probably won't have a major effect on student eating habits, but having new, healthier food will cause some change which is a good start. And although the school doesn't sell all healthy foods yet, a small change is better than none, he said.
“A little can go a long way.”
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