Drinks in the canteen

When it comes to drinks in the canteen, at Healthy Kids we believe that reduced-fat plain milk and water should be a child’s first choice of beverage. They are the healthiest and most nutritious options available and should be the main beverages distributed in a canteen.

ACT

In the ACT, the National Healthy School Canteen Guidelines determine what can and cannot be sold. It states that water and reduced-fat milk (plain and flavoured) are GREEN. Full fat milk (plain and flavoured), as well as vegetable and fruit juices, are AMBER. In the ACT, juices must be at least 99% fruit juice with no added sugar, in a serve size of 250ml or less, and with no intense (artificial) sweeteners.

Coffee milk drinks (flavoured or caffeinated) should not be sold in primary school and should be limited to a serve size of 375ml in secondary schools.

Soft drinks, iced teas, cordials, sports waters/drinks, flavoured mineral waters, energy drinks and sweetened waters are ALL RED and in ACT.

NSW

The NSW Healthy School Canteen Strategy, based on the Australian Dietary Guidelines, outlines food and drinks permitted for sale through canteens in NSW government school canteens and vending machines. It also supports the Nutrition in Schools Policy, which identifies that any school program or activity relating to or involving food and drink should promote healthy eating and good nutrition to students. It is important to note that sugary drinks continue to NOT BE SOLD in school canteens or vending machines.

WATER

Water is EVERYDAY and is the best choice for children. It should be available to children free of charge by the use of bubblers or water bottle refill stations. The canteen can also choose to sell bottles of water.

MILK

Plain and flavoured milk is EVERYDAY.

MILKSHAKES & SMOOTHIES

Milkshakes and smoothies with no added ice cream/gelato/sorbet are EVERYDAY drinks. They may also be frozen or blended with ice. Their maximum portion size is 300ml (primary school) and 500ml (High School).

JUICES (including Slushies)

99% Fruit Juice is EVERYDAY and its maximum portion size is 250ml.