28 Apr 2010
More than 443,000 students in 1,039 pre-primary institutions, primary, special education and secondary schools enjoyed fruits together today (April 28) at school to show their support for 'Joyful Fruit Day 2010'.
Organised for the fourth year in a row, the territory-wide event promotes healthy eating among students. Eating more fruit and vegetables will protect students from chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer.
"According to the Food Pyramid, children aged between six and twelve years of age should have one to two servings of fruits every day on top of eating various types of vegetables, cereals, meat and dairy products in order to have a healthy and balanced diet," the Assistant Director of Health (Health Promotion), Dr Regina Ching, said.
"A range of tailor-made activities under 'Joyful Fruit Day 2010' will help students of different age develop a habit of eating more fruit and vegetables."
These include a fruit eating diary award and fruit parties for pre-primary school children, an online quiz game for primary students and a video competition for secondary students. Members of the public can also take part in this campaign with immediate effect by casting their vote for the most popular video at the Department of Health's EatSmart Website ( www.eatsmart.gov.hk ). Casting will last till 31 May.
Dr Ching noted that school response to the 'Joyful Fruit Day 2010' had been encouraging. As at April 23, some 84%, 65% and 21% of students from pre-primary institutions, primary schools (including special education) and secondary schools respectively have enrolled in various programme activities.
"Everyone has a role in helping the community adopt a healthier eating habit. The good response from schools and parents will further strengthen the impact of the programme," she said.
'Joyful Fruit Day 2010' is a territory-wide event under the 'EatSmart@school.hk Campaign' co-organised by the Department of Health, the Education Bureau, Radio Television Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Education City, the Committee on Home-School Co-operation, the Hong Kong College of Cardiology and the World Cancer Research Fund Hong Kong.
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, Information Services Department, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Marketing, Sing Tao Daily and Parent-teacher Associations of 18 districts are supporting organisations.
More information on EatSmart@school.hk Campaign is also available at DH's EatSmart website.