Heart foundation rejects claim on school snacks

THE Irish Heart Foundation strongly refutes the claim by the Snack Food Council of Ireland (Letters, March 4) that only an estimated 50 schools and third-level colleges stock savoury snack foods in vending machines.

An independent survey undertaken by NUI Galway on behalf of the Irish Heart Foundation last year showed that 57% of post-primary schools (195 schools) provide crisps and salty snacks in at least one outlet, including vending machines, tuck shops or school canteens.

Of the 343 schools that responded (45% of all post-primary schools), we found that 43 provided snacks in vending machines alone. But the Snack Food Council is asking us to believe there are only seven vending machines remaining in secondary schools and third-level colleges.

We also welcome Senator Frances Fitzgerald’s call to schools and hospitals to curtail sales of crisps and fizzy drinks. This echoes findings from our schools’ survey where 83% of principals called for a national code of practice and 47% agreed that a legislative approach is needed to deal with unhealthy foods available in schools. The Health Promoting Hospital Network is also addressing this area in their hospitals.

Of particular concern is the displacement of healthy foods with less nutritious foods. Both the National Teen Food Survey and National Children’s Food Survey showed that 20% of Irish children’s energy is coming from snack foods, sugary, fizzy drinks and confectionary, leaving only 80% of energy to be found in nutritious foods.

These surveys showed a lack of essential nutrients, including calcium and iron, in Irish children’s diets.

Maureen Mulvihill

Health Promotion Manager

Irish Heart Foundation

Clyde Road

Ballsbridge

Dublin 4