Many are asking, why is it necessary to banned the junk foods? This is because the Department of Education (DepEd) is determined to ban the sale of junk foods, soft drinks and juice products in public and private schools and it is also based on DepED Order No. 8 series of 2007 or the “Revised Implementing Guidelines on the Operation and Management of School Canteen in the Public and Private Elementary and Secondary Schools,” only nutrient-rich foods and fortified food products labeled with protein, energy, vitamins and minerals can be sold.

                Based on  DepEd’s explanation, the “No Junk Food Policy” must be implemented because it will be detrimental to the health of young people. They may have kidney disease or tuberculosis. These diseases are contracted from salty foods or from frequent salty foods. At first if you look at it it’s really hard to implement because whether we admit it or not, most young students today are already accustomed to eating junkfoods and other foods that only get their attention, but have low levels of nutrients. , but if the sale of malnourished foods is really wanted and restricted especially in public schools, it is not impossible to meet this measure.

The guidance of parents, teachers, canteen managers, canteen helpers and the entire school leadership can work together to better protect the health of young students. As the ad says – “Do IT Now,” it’s not just about eating – it must be healthy eating. You should choose more nutritious foods such as fruits, milk, snacks and other alternative foods that are rich in nutrients. Because if every student has a healthy body and mind we will surely have competent, intelligent, healthy and good citizens in the future.

By: Michelle Marie M. Diaz|Teacher I| Cataning Elementary School | Balanga City, Bataan