This week?s decision by the nation?s largest beverage distributors to limit soda sales in public schools comes as the Carroll County Public School System is changing its vending machine policy.
“Beginning in the 2006-07 school year, our vending machines will be divided into two categories, one for foods with minimal nutritional value, the other for those that meet the state?s nutritional requirements,” said Stephen Guthrie, assistant superintendent for administration for Carroll County Public Schools.
Most of the school system?s vending machines are in or near high school cafeterias and gymnasiums. Few machines are available to middle-schoolers, while none are accessible to elementary school students.
The new policy will permit vending machines containing soda and candy to be turned on only after the final bell rings, but not before the school day, Guthrie said.
Vending machines with healthier products, such as water, milk, fruit juices and sports drinks of 12 ounces, or less will be kept on during the school day at the principal?s discretion.
According to a deal announced Wednesday by the William J. Clinton Foundation, the nation?s largest beverage distributors have agreed to halt nearly all soda sales to public schools.
Under the agreement, the companies will sell only water, unsweetened juice and low-fat milk to elementary and middle schools, said Jay Carson, a spokesman for former President Bill Clinton. Diet sodas would be sold only to high schools.
Cadbury Schweppes PLC, Coca-Cola Co., PepsiCo Inc. and the American Beverage Association have all signed onto the deal, Carson said.
Under the agreement, high schools still can purchase drinks such as diet and unsweetened teas, diet sodas, sports drinks, flavored water, seltzer and low-calorie sports drinks from distributors.
? The Associated Press contributed to this story.
