FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 2, 2006
The average Canadian household visits a restaurant for a meal or snack 520 times per year (more than once a day!). In addition, the average Canadian family is spending at least 30 cents of every food dollar on foodservice. Locally, the number of restaurants has soared to just over 400 to meet that demand.
In response to these trends, local dietitians have come up with a “Nutrition Month” plan to encourage people in the city of Thunder Bay to make wise food choices wherever they go!
During the month of March, dietitian’s will be on the lookout in local grocery stores and Eat Smart! restaurants and cafeteria’s to catch customers in the act of making wise food choices. When they “Get Caught” they’ll be eligible to win prizes on the spot and have a chance to win kitchen appliances.
The following will also be taking place in Thunder Bay:
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Grocery Store Demo, Tour and “Get Caught” kickoff on Sat. March 4th at Quality Market (County Fair Plaza) at 12 to 4 pm,
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Grocery Store Tours – call the Heart & Stroke Foundation at 623-1118 to register
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‘Fast healthy dinner’ demonstration at Intercity Mall on Sat., March 18th, 12 to 5 pm
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Take a Break With Your Kid Campaign highlighting how parents can help their children learn how to make healthy choices.
“Generally, people want to make healthier food choices, they are just not sure what constitutes a healthy choice” says Angela Hollett, Public Health Dietitian at the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. “There are a lot of conflicting messages out there about food and nutrition. It is important for schools and families to model healthy eating practices as children are influenced by both the positive and negative choices of their parents and teachers.”
To help educate consumers, they can pick up a free “Make the Healthy Choice” wheel at Eat Smart! establishments starting in March.
For more information about all the fun activities that will be taking place throughout March go to www.tbdhu.com or call Nutrition Services at (807) 625-8315.
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