Introduction to Nutritional Guidelines
City agencies serving food and beverages will be given purchasing guidelines that call for healthier and more culturally appropriate food options for residents, according to an executive order signed Thursday by Mayor Brandon Johnson.
Establishing Nutrition Standards
The order establishes nutrition standards, best practice guidelines and, for the first time, defines “nutritious foods” and other terms for agencies that serve food on city-owned properties. The standards should help city departments and partnering non-profits buy healthier food options, with the goal that those agencies will reduce the amount of sugar-sweetened beverages, candy and other foods that are linked to chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
Goals of the Executive Order
“Ensuring every Chicagoan no matter their Zip code has access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food is critical to our work of building healthy, whole, and safe communities across this city,” Johnson said in a statement. “This order brings together the full force of government to make healthy eating a priority in our schools, at our parks, and all public spaces.”
Implementation of the Guidelines
The executive order calls on the city’s Department of Public Health to facilitate the nutritional guidelines. CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo Ige said the order aims to change eating behaviors and widen access to healthy foods across the city. “CDPH and the City of Chicago are working together to encourage and improve nutritional standards through an approach of substituting processed, high-sodium and high-sugar foods and beverages with low-fat, low-sugar, affordable, accessible, and culturally appropriate choices,” Ige said in a statement.
Exemptions and Special Considerations
Some agencies may be exempt from the mandatory purchasing guidelines, for example, those that are already regulated through state or federal guidelines, according to the order. But city officials said the executive order is especially vital because of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
Conclusion
The establishment of nutritional guidelines for food served on city property marks a significant step towards promoting healthier eating habits among residents. By providing clear standards and guidelines for city agencies and partnering non-profits, the city aims to reduce the prevalence of chronic diseases and improve overall health and wellbeing.
FAQs
Q: What is the main goal of the executive order signed by Mayor Brandon Johnson?
A: The main goal of the executive order is to ensure that every Chicagoan has access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food, regardless of their zip code.
Q: Which city department will facilitate the nutritional guidelines?
A: The city’s Department of Public Health will facilitate the nutritional guidelines.
Q: Are all city agencies required to follow the purchasing guidelines?
A: No, some agencies may be exempt from the mandatory purchasing guidelines, such as those already regulated through state or federal guidelines.
Q: Why is the executive order especially vital at this time?
A: The executive order is especially vital because of cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.
