Broad support for school junk food bans
February 3, 2005 - Ottawa - Removing junk foods from public schools is a step in the right direction, and an idea that enjoys broad public support, according to a recent public survey by the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). 84% of those questioned felt that all snack foods sold in public schools should be low in sugar.
"As a dentist and a parent, I certainly don't want my kids eating candy and pop at school," said CDA president, Dr. Alfred Dean, "Although we'd like to think otherwise, the reality is that most kids are not going to pull out the toothbrush and floss during recess. I'm glad to see that most Canadians agree that when schools opt to limit available snack foods to healthy choices, they're making the right decision."
Cavities are not the only concern with junk foods in schools. Childhood obesity rates are escalating, and many of the habits that cause dental decay are also a problem for weight gain: frequent snacking on sugary foods; substituting pop for milk; and generally poor nutrition.
The survey sampled 1870 adult Canadians in French and English from November to December 2004. Other questions asked about brushing and flossing habits; tooth fairy belief and practises; attitudes towards dentistry; attendance at the dentist and other issues. Further information is available from the contact listed below.
The Canadian Dental Association is the authoritative national voice of dentistry, dedicated to the representation and advancement of the profession, nationally and internationally, and to the achievement of optimal oral health.
