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Unlike cold or flu germs that should be contained, local health officials are encouraging the spread of a healthy snack option initiative that has already been rolled out in Bellefontaine and also is being recommended for activities throughout the county.
Logan County Health Commissioner Dr. Boyd Hoddinott reported at the Wednesday afternoon board of health meeting that letters have been sent to 54 seasonal and mobile food vendors that serve Logan County. The vendors have been asked for their voluntary participation in the program by offering healthy concession alternatives at sporting events, festivals and other upcoming events this year.
“At the health district, we have a natural link to these seasonal and mobile food vendors, as we conduct the licensing for these groups each year in March,” Dr. Hoddinott said. “So this seemed like a good time to offer some recommendations and let them know what the consumers want.”
Healthy snack items could include baked verses fried foods, or granola bars, yogurt, nuts, cheese sticks, low sugar options, or beverages like water, milk and juice, the letter noted.
In recent months, two other Healthy Habits, Healthy You coalition agencies, Bellefontaine Parks and Recreation and the Hilliker Y, have committed to selling these types of food items in their concession stands and vending machines. Approaching the mobile food vendors continues this trend, LCHD officials said.
To gauge public interest in the healthy snack offerings, the health district conducted a survey through social media and during routine client visits to the agency. The majority of respondents said they would like to have this choice, especially if the price did not increase, Dr. Hoddinott said.
For the vendors that want to pursue espouse the program, they can fill out an application for a Healthy Habits, Healthy You logo, which will also allow the coalition to track these changes.
“All of the recommendations are completely voluntary, and we are not forcing any regulations on the vendors,” the health commissioner said.
For additional Logan County District Board of Health news, see Thursday’s Examiner.