SPRINGFIELD — New federal rules aimed at offering students healthier food options could mean Illinois schools won’t be able to sell some types of the state’s official snack food.
The Decatur Herald & Review reports the Illinois State Board of Education is set to discuss the federal “Smart Snacks” program Wednesday.
The program restricts the type of snacks that may be sold in schools beginning in the 2014-2015 school year. Among the potential targets are cheese- and candy-flavored versions of popcorn, which was designated the state snack food 11 years ago.
Then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich noted at the time that Illinois is one of the nation’s top popcorn-producing states.
The rules only apply to food and beverages sold at school. They set limits for sugar, fat and salt.
Check out this list of other official symbols of Illinois.
via The Associated Press
