JSI: A-List - Acceptable competitive foods and beverages in Massachusetts schools

JSI A-List

The John C. Stalker Institute of Food and Nutrition (JSI) supports healthy students and schools in Massachusetts with The A-List, an up-to-date and ever-expanding list of vending and snack products that meet the Massachusetts Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods and Beverages in Public Schools. These mandatory standards go into effect on August 1, 2012.

In support of the HealthierUS School Challenge, product evaluations for Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Gold Award of Distinction levels have also been conducted and results are displayed alongside A-List products. Please note: This list is not reviewed or approved by USDA; products on this list are not endorsed by USDA and all products may not meet the Gold Award of Distinction criteria.

Steps for Product Evaluation for the JSI A-List

Please follow these easy steps to have your product(s) evaluated against the new, mandated Massachusetts Standards and USDA's HealthierUS School Challenge nutritional criteria:

Gather nutritional data for your company's product(s) which include the official nutrition panel(s) and ingredient list(s). These can be found on the package label of each product.
E-mail your submission to:

Note: Product submissions must include the official nutrition panel and ingredient list for this evaluation as well as distribution information for the product(s).

Please note that product evaluation by JSI is not mandatory, however, compliance of these Standards is required.

Background

The Massachusetts Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods and Beverages in Public Schools was passed in 2010 in response to the childhood obesity epidemic and go into effect on August 1, 2012.

These Standards apply to competitive foods and beverages sold or provided 30 minutes before the beginning of the school day until 30 minutes after the school day ends. However, foods and beverages sold in vending machines must meet the standards at all times.

For guidance on these Standards, please refer to: Healthy Students, Healthy Schools: Guidance for Implementing the Massachusetts School Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods and Beverages

Downloads

Current A-List in one PDF file - this version is based upon the Massachusetts Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods and Beverages.

Former A-List in one PDF file - this version is based upon the Massachusetts A La Carte Food & Beverage Standards to Promote a Healthier School Environment. Last updated August 2011.

Distributors' list in one PDF file.