Press Releases

Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright re-introduced legislation to promote nutrition education. The bipartisan Nutrition Education Act would require schools participating in the National School Lunch Program to include 50 hours of nutrition education each year.

“Nearly one in three children is overweight or obese. This bill is an important step in ensuring our children are getting the health education they need to live healthier, longer lives,” said Rep. Cartwright. “In addition, obesity and associated health problems take a toll on the nation’s economy. Childhood obesity alone costs an estimated $14 billion annually in direct health expenses.”

The Nutrition Education Act also recommends that nutrition education is incorporated into subjects like math, science, language arts, and social sciences. With fun participatory activities, like farm visits, taste testing, and school gardens, children will learn the importance of nutritional energy balance.

This bill is endorsed by the Center for Science in the Public Interest.