Food and drink in this category are the best choices for schools and preschools. They include:

• Breads, cereals, rice, pasta and noodles
• Vegetables and legumes
• Fruit
• Dairy foods - reduced or low fat milk, yoghurt and cheese
• Lean meat and poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and legumes (dried beans and lentils)
• Water

Include a wide variety of these foods as part of the foods wherever possible supplied and promote them as tasty, fresh and good value for money choices.

Water is an important part of this category. Fresh clean tap water should be available at all times.

Within this category some foods are even healthier choices than others. Wholegrain breads and ceral products are healthier because they incorporate all of the natural grain and are higher in fibre. Examples are air-popped popcorn, high fibre breakfast cerals, wholemeal, rye and high fibre breads and crispbreads. Fruits and vegetables that are eaten with the skin on (eg apples, carrots) are also higher in fibre than when peeled.

GREEN category food and drink should make up the majority of choices provided for students in SA schools and preschools. Foods from the GREEN category can be marketed as tasty and good value. Take every opportunity to include them whenever food is provided, including in the canteen.

For example, add at least one salad vegtables to sandwiches and rolls, add salad to burgers, and serve chilled fruit pieces at lunchtime.

Presentation is an important factor in food selection. Colour, flavour, texture and temperature are key ingredients in successful presentation of food. If food looks good and tastes great - students will buy it!