OK: USDA JOINS DAIRY FARMERS, NFL TO IMPROVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS IN SCHOOLS

News Date February 02, 2010

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has joined a campaign to fight and defeat childhood obesity in cooperation with the NFL, National Dairy Council, multiple health organizations and several major corporations. The campaign, known as Fuel Up to Play 60, is funded with an initial financial commitment by America’s Dairy Farmers and focuses on improving nutrient-rich food choices and achieving 60 minutes of physical activity each day among children. 

More than 58,000, or 60 percent, of the nation’s private and public schools are currently enrolled in Fuel Up to Play 60.  Here in Oklahoma, 1,058 schools now participate in the Fuel Up to Play 60 program.

It is possible that today’s children could become the first American generation with a shorter life expectancy than their parents. One-third of American children are overweight or obese. The obesity prevalence is about three to four times that of just one generation ago, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“Today is a significant milestone in the fight against childhood obesity because this unprecedented partnership will help educate our youth about steps they can and should take to lead healthy lives,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.

Vilsack joins Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner, and Tom Gallagher, CEO of Dairy Management Inc., the managing organization for National Dairy Council to support and promote the initiative. Other organizations supporting Fuel Up to Play 60 are Action for Healthy Kids, American Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Dietetic Association, National Hispanic Medical Association, National Medical Association, and School Nutrition Association.

Based on the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the program empowers students “fuel up” with nutrient-rich foods they often lack – particularly low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products, fruits, vegetables and whole grains – and “get up and play” for 60 minutes each day. Components, developed for and by youth are customizable, non-prescriptive and help them meet local goals and school wellness policies.

The program taps the power of the NFL to add recognition and value for students. National Dairy Council’s trusted school relationships are crucial in implementing and sustaining the program. All 32 NFL teams are participating in the program through local dairy councils and schools in their respective markets.

By giving students both a voice and a valuable role in shaping the future of their generation, National Dairy Council, the NFL and USDA are providing concrete opportunities for children to lead real change in the fight against childhood obesity.  (Contact: Susan Allen, 405-282-4971)