A new federal law that aims to curb childhood obesity is setting new health standards for foods sold at school bake sales in dozens of states. What that means is cookies, cakes, and brownies may have to be replaced with fruit cups and granola bars, starting this fall.
The restrictions that took effect in July stem from the 2010 Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act championed by first lady Michelle Obama and her "Let's Move!" campaign, the
Wall Street Journal reports.
The law sets new nutrition standards affecting more than 30 million children. Under the new rules, fatty french fries are out while baked sweet potato fries are OK. In addition, buttery popcorn might not pass muster, nor would chocolate chip cookies and other high-calorie, high-sugar baked goods.
The law also requires the U.S. Department of Agriculture to set standards for all food and beverages sold during the school day, which includes vending machines, snack carts, and daytime fundraisers.
It allows for "infrequent" fundraisers, and states are allowed to decide how many bake sales they would have that didn't meet nutrition standards.
But without state-approved exemptions, any treats sold would have to meet calorie, sodium, fat, and other requirements. The law permits states to fine schools that don't comply with the rules.