The City of Lethbridge has launched a new initiative to promote a healthy diet by including diet-conscious options in accessible, everyday locations, ranging from vending machines to concession stands.
The new effort aims to make sure that at least 25 percent of all food and beverage options in public spaces like schools and arenas is considered healthy. This will involve updating the Menus at city-owned facilities, such as the Enmax Centre, University of Lethbridge Community Stadium and the Yates and Sterndale Bennet Theatre. The guidelines will also apply to other public sports and recreation venues. Less popular candy machines will be replaced by healthy vending machines dispatching items such as granola bars, fruit juice, beef jerky and milk.
Updated concession stands could offer healthy snacks such as fruit salad, hummus, sub sandwiches and soup. The change comes after a “report card” issued by the Healthy Communities Association of Lethbridge and Area found room for improvement in Lethbridge’s food policy, particularly in areas like pricing and marketing of healthy food.
Municipalities and other institutions have used tools like colourful graphic design and catchy slogans to try to make alternatives to fast food more appealing over recent years.
The Lethbridge City Council voted unanimously this December to make the shift to a healthier menu in public venues. These changes will be rolled out over the course of 2021, as sports audiences and participants return to the facilities.Get a Free Quote for Menus
