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As part of the provincial strategy
to reduce health care costs by improving individual
health, healthier food choices will replace "junk food"
in vending machines in all public buildings across the
province.
Public buildings are those buildings
owned or leased by the Province through the
Accommodation and Real Estate Services Division (ARES)
of the Ministry of Labour and Citizens’ Services, or by
provincial public bodies, health authorities (including
hospitals), public post-secondary institutions (university colleges, colleges and public
institutions) and Crown corporations. Additionally, the
policy extends to all vending machines managed by
provincial public sector bodies.
The Ministry of Health has been
involved in the development of Nutritional Guidelines
for Vending Machines in B.C. Public Buildings. Food
and beverages sold in vending machines in
provincially-funded public buildings must meet these
guidelines.
Vendors are encouraged to add
healthier choices to the products available in vending
machines as soon as possible. As contracts come up for
renewal or are renegotiated, the new guidelines will be
adopted.
While a vending machine is often the only option for a
quick snack, junk food shouldn’t be. The Province is
leading the way by ensuring that healthier options are
available, because we all have a responsibility to make
healthier food choices – for ourselves, for our families
and as a society.For a list of the
"Choose Most" and "Choose Sometimes" foods that meet
B.C.'s nutrition standards for schools and public
buildings, visit www.brandnamefoodlist.ca
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