US News

School snack attack

WASHINGTON — Junk food and sugary drinks will be pulled from schools next year as part of a nutritional overhaul.

The “Smart Snacks in School” standards released yesterday by the Department of Agriculture ban such options as full-fat chocolate cookies, fruit snacks and candy bars offered at lunch and in vending machines, replacing them with healthier foods such as peanuts and fruit cups. Elementary- and middle-school children can drink water, milk and juice, while high-school students also will be offered beverages with 60 calories or fewer in a 12-ounce serving.

The rules take effect in July 2014, giving schools and suppliers time to adjust to requirements that promote foods high in whole grains, dairy, fruits and vegetables, the USDA said. The guidelines don’t apply to foods sold after school or brought from home. Bake sales, fund-raisers and sweet treats at parties are still allowed.

“It doesn’t make sense for schools to teach nutrition in the classroom, then counter it by selling sugary drinks and candy bars in vending machines in the hallway,” said Margo Wootan, the nutrition-policy director at the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a consumer advocacy group.