Title: Statement by the President Upon Signing the National School Lunch Act | Encyclopedia.com
Headings: Statement by the President Upon Signing the National School Lunch Act
Statement by the President Upon Signing the National School Lunch Act
Statement by the President Upon Signing the National School Lunch Act
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Content: There has been "food fighting" among two factions—school authorities, including teachers, children, and parents; and the massive food and beverage industry. School authorities, teachers, and parents have often criticized the NSLP, especially the quality of food provided. More than half of the population in the United States, especially children, is either overweight or obese. According to the National Survey Data, the number of overweight children has quadrupled since 1960. Research indicates that overweight students tend to have lower grades and hardly participate in sporting events. The obesity factor is more worrisome as children face the risk of diseases and ailments such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure, arthritis, and cancer. The U.S. surgeon general put the cost of obesity in 2000 at 117 billion dollars. The increase in obese or overweight children is attributed in part to the high fat content of meals served under the NSLP. Critics maintain that these meals do not follow nutrition guidelines and typically include food items such as hot dogs, cheeseburgers, and pork chops—all high in fat content and sodium.