Nutritious Fruit Bars for School Children Launched
The Punjab Food Authority (PFA), in collaboration with the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition, has introduced nutritious fruit bars for school children. This initiative aims to replace low-nutrition snacks in the market with healthier alternatives. The fruit bars are designed to provide essential nutrients while being tasty and child-friendly.
According to Muhammad Asim Javed, Director General of PFA, the goal is to promote healthy eating habits among children. The initiative also focuses on ensuring proper growth and development. Under the school meal program, 20,000 students from 70 schools will receive 480 calories daily through these fruit bars.
Promoting Healthy Eating Habits
The program is not only about providing calories but also about monitoring children’s overall health. Schools will track students’ weight, height, and BMI regularly. This data will help assess the impact of healthy snacking on children’s growth. Experts believe that introducing nutritious options in school meals can play a significant role in improving overall child health.
In addition, this program encourages children to make better food choices outside school. By replacing sugary and low-nutrition snacks with fruit bars, students can develop long-term healthy eating habits. Parents are also advised to support these habits at home by providing balanced meals.
A Step Toward Better Nutrition
As a result of this initiative, children can enjoy snacks that are both healthy and enjoyable. Schools act as a key platform for promoting nutrition awareness. Furthermore, providing controlled-calorie, nutrient-rich snacks helps combat malnutrition and obesity simultaneously.
This collaboration between PFA and the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition is an important step toward a healthier future for Pakistani children. As schools continue to provide nutritious snacks, children are more likely to adopt lasting healthy habits. Such initiatives can serve as a model for other regions aiming to improve child nutrition effectively.
