Fresh fruit and vegie challenge

Three Peninsula primary school have signed up for a healthy eating challenge to set a record for eating fresh fruit and vegetables at school this year.

The Fresh for Kids challenge has attracted to St John the Baptist Primary School in Umina along with Umina and Woy Woy South public schools.

Other local schools are expected to come on board with the campaign, according to Sydney Markets marketing programs manager Ms Melissa Kolc.

"There's nothing like a bit of healthy competition to get kids excited about fresh food," Ms Kolc said.

"While students learn about fresh produce in the classroom during the Healthy Kids Association and Cancer Council NSW Fruit 'n' Veg Month, it's an ideal time for canteens to come on board and give kids the opportunity to taste a variety of fresh produce in their lunches.

"Schools don't have to do it alone; our website (www.freshforkids.com.au) is full of ideas and supporting resources.

"Simply by purchasing fresh fruit and vegetables from their school canteen during the challenge and collecting token stickers along the way, students go into the running for prizes."

According to Ms Kolc, more than 242 Peninsula students took part last year and she hoped more local schools from the area would get involved this year.

Press release, 31 May 2010 Melissa Kolc, Sydney Markets