Jenna Davies explains how it came about: “This initiative originated in the Zuid-Holland Zuid and West Brabant regions because, in conversations with schools, we found that lunchboxes were often filled with unhealthy food. This calls for changes in policy and action in practice, but first and foremost, it requires support. Because although schools are keen to implement a healthy policy, support from parents/carers is needed to make this happen in practice together. It starts with awareness and inspiration. Schools without a health policy will feel encouraged by this to also start working on healthy nutrition.”
The local public-private partnership with Lidl Netherlands has strengthened the initiative. At national level, Lidl draws attention to a healthy lunch at the start of the new school year with the ‘Lunchbox without Junk’ campaign, while JOGG continues to make the regional initiative available to more JOGG municipalities. The campaign includes, among other things, an inspiration booklet and healthy, affordable recipes for lunchboxes.
Marjon Bachra, Managing Director of JOGG, is also enthusiastic: “Above all, this award is recognition for a local partnership with supermarkets that has resulted in a wonderful initiative. A great practical example for other JOGG municipalities. Because to make healthy school lunches the norm, we need support from parents and children in addition to innovative ideas. Together, we make healthy the norm!”
About the Healthy Innovation Awards
Foodlog and FoodPersonality believe it is important for people to eat and live healthily—or more healthily. To encourage this, both organizations jointly present the Healthy Innovation Awards. It is a recognition award for products and initiatives that contribute to a healthier eating pattern.
Photo caption: The presentation of the Healthy Innovation Award. From left to right: Bianca van der Ha (Foodlog), Mark Peeters (FoodPersonality), Jenna Davies (JOGG) and Nikita Verkaart (Lidl Netherlands).