Junk Food Still in Bay Area Schools, Despite Legislation

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) -- While foods Bay Area students have access to have less fat and sugar than before state legislation was enacted, nutritionists say that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s healthy.

"All that does is produce a snack that is less bad for you without actually ensuring that the snack is good for you," said Dana Waldow, co-chair of the San Francisco School District’s Student Nutrition Committee.

A survey of Bay Area schools by the San Francisco Chronicle found that many are still serving cookies and chips, just reformulated to comply with nutritional standards. In addition, the state doesn't plan to eliminate soda until 2009.

However, some schools have been acting far beyond the legislation on their own. Balboa High School was soda and junk food free by January of 2004, according to Principal Patricia Gray.

"We saw such a great difference in student performance and student behavior that it was a no-brainer," said Gray.

KCBS’ Janice Wright reports