KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 17 — Most food served in school canteens were high in fat and sugar content, contributing to a  high calorie consumption among students.

Dietician Erica Mak said children were forced to consume such food due to a lack of healthier choices, resulting in poor eating habits which contributed to the rise of obesity among children.

“As the food served much in fat and sugar, it made up a large portion of a child’s caloric consumption. Unhealthy diet habits cultivated from a young age may increase risk for non-communicable diseases later in life,” Mak said.

“Hence, the right proportion of macronutrients and micronutrients were essential for optimal growth and school performance.”

Mak was asked to comment over checks made by The Malay Mail at several primary and secondary schools in the Klang Valley. It was found the schools served food which contained minimal nutritional value and many schools did not adhere to guidelines set by the Education Ministry (see accompanying story).

Mak, who is attached to the dietetics and food services department in Assunta Hospital, said a joint effort between the government, canteen operators and parents was essential to ensure nutritious food were easily available in schools to nurture and sustain good eating habits among children.

“Enforcement is needed to ensure compliance of canteen vendors to guidelines in preparing food with less sugar, salt and fat.

“Culinary training for canteen vendors is also essential to equip them with knowledge of healthy nutrition and culinary skills to prepare balanced and healthier meals,” she said.

Mak said fried food and sweetened beverages, high in fat and sugar, should be replaced with wholesome snacks instead.