Almost 500 schools are taking part in the ‘Eat Them to Defeat
Them' campaign, helping more than 100,000 children eat more
vegetables and make healthier food choices.
Eat Them to Defeat Them from Veg Power – supported by the Welsh
Government – makes eating vegetables fun and encourages children
to explore new foods.
Research shows children aren't eating enough vegetables, with a
third eating less than one portion a day.
The campaign has been proven to increase vegetable intake, even
in the most reluctant - 67% said the campaign helped them eat
more veg.
Windsor Clive Primary School in Cardiff is one of the schools
taking part in the campaign this year and children have enjoyed
learning about the importance of a balanced diet.
They also had an opportunity to make fresh pasta, taste new foods
and learn about preparing healthy meals thanks to the Food Hour
pilot project.
The Food Hour project dedicates an hour in class every day to
teaching and inspiring children about nutrition, with practical
classes about how to grow, cook and prepare healthy food.
Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said:
“We want every child to have their best, healthy start in life
and understand the importance of a balanced diet.
“Unfortunately, the amount of veg we all eat has decreased over
the years. A poor diet can put children at a disadvantage and
increase the risk of obesity.
“It's great to see so many schools involved in this campaign,
helping children to make healthier choices. The Eat Them to
Defeat Them campaign and Food Hour pilot project are brilliant
ways of inspiring children to eat and cook healthy food.”
Notes to editors
- Eat Them to Defeat Them is the award-winning campaign from
Veg Power and is being supported by the Welsh Government to
deliver the programme in 478 schools throughout Wales.
-
The Food Hour -
foodsensewales.org.uk
-
Healthy Weight Healthy
Wales is the Welsh Government's strategy for preventing and
reducing obesity, which has a strong focus on early years and
childhood.
