Author: JENNIFER MUZZIN, RD

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) was started in 2002 as a pilot program through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in four states with the purpose of introducing school children to fresh fruits and vegetables. The FFVP was made a permanent grant program nationwide in 2008 and is funded through the Farm Bill. The goal of FFVP is to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices; expand the variety of fruits and vegetables children experience; increase children’s fruit and vegetable consumption; and make a difference in children’s diets to impact their present and future health. … Read More

September is Fruit and Veggies – More Matters Month. This is a national campaign to inform people how easy it is to get 5 – 7 servings of fruits and veggies in our daily diet. Fruits and vegetables contribute much needed vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the diet which helps reduce the incidence of chronic disease. For children ages 2-18, the recommended fruit and vegetable intake ranges from 1-2 cups of fruit and 1-3 cups of vegetables. Recommended intakes are based on age, sex and activity level. A report from CDC Morbidity and Mortality Weekly looked at fruit and vegetable … Read More

Peaches are a delicious summer treat. A native of China, peaches traveled to Persia before making their way to the Americas with the Spaniards in the 1700’s. Thomas Jefferson grew peaches at Monticello. It wasn’t until the 1900’s that commercial peach growing began in the United States. A member of the rose family, and classified as a stone fruit due to the large seed in the middle, peaches have a fuzzy skin, with either yellow or white flesh. Two varieties are available: Freestone (flesh separates from seed) or Clingstone (flesh sticks to seed). When we think of peaches we usually … Read More

Kids Eat Right Month focuses on the importance of healthy and active lifestyles for children and families. As the new school year starts, Child Nutrition Services wants to help families by providing balanced breakfast and lunch options for the students of St. Lucie Public Schools. The best way to start the day is with breakfast. Studies have shown students who eat a balanced breakfast tend to be more focused and learn better than students who skip breakfast. Child Nutrition Services offers breakfast with items that include whole grains, lean proteins, whole fruit, and low-fat milk options. Child Nutrition Services understands … Read More