Cafeteria menu may contribute to behavioral problems in children, nonprofit claims

By Staff Writer

New research suggests that the chemicals that are used in school lunches may contribute to behavior, learning or health problems among children.

According to the Coastal Courier, food researching nonprofit The Feingold Association claims that the ingredients used in certain school foods - such as Red 40, Yellow 5 and MSG - may explain a surge in cases of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, depression, bi-polar disorder and diabetes.

Jane Hersey, the director of the Feingold Association, cited a study from the early 1980s when a New York school system removed additives, such as food dyes and artificial flavors, from their foods. She added that test stores dramatically improved once certain additives were eliminated from school lunches, according to the media outlet.

Hersey said that while many factors contribute to developmental and behavior problems, the increased amount of processed food in school cafeterias may be a source of blame.

Parents who are concerned about their child's eating habits may consider a tough love approach, which may include enforcing a strict diet that contains more natural foods such as fruits and vegetables.