Eat More Lucky Charms! On the new "Smart Choices" labeling program
If you've ever spent time in the grocery store studying labels (and what parent doesn't, at least once), you know how frustrating it is comparing all of the information on one box to fifteen other choices, nearby. Wouldn't it be helpful if there were a mark to tell you which one was healthiest? Well, now there is! It's called the Smart Choices Program. And it was put in place by none other than...leading food manufacturers.
Wait. What?
This simple, green check mark on a box or bag is supposed to indicate healthier food choices. Oh, don't worry. They've included some nutritionists and health organization members on the Board of Directors. But since each company pays big bucks to participate, you know who's guiding the research. Of course they've included only the healthiest foods on the market. You know, like Lucky Charms and Corn Pops. And Froot Loops.
Yes, Froot Loops. Oh come on, don't smirk. It's fortified with all sorts of vitamins and minerals. It's even got fiber. But... It also measures 41% sugar by weight. I just can see it now: smarty-pants big sister follows me down aisles 4 through 8, pointing repeatedly to the green checkmark on the box and describing the benefits of making "Smart Choices", while my four-year old shouts "But Mom, it smells so good! It tastes soooo good! I want it I want it I want it!" until I get fed up and shove an Oreo Cookie into that little mouth just to get some peace. Maybe I ought to look for the green check mark in the cookie aisle, too? Hey, Rice Krispies Treats is listed on the Smart Choices website. Here, kid.
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