We often get queries with regards to certain items on OSHC menus. Quite often, settings will specifically ask about Coles Brand foods – as they are usually a cheaper alternative.

The table below outlines some common Coles products that we see on menus. When we review your menus, we classify items against the Smart Choices criteria, which looks specifically at the energy, saturated fat and sodium content of products. As you can see below, some products are over the criteria in certain areas, meaning they would be RED. Smart Choices recommends RED foods are not on menus, and only served twice per term. If they fit within the criteria below, it means they are AMBER, and should not be in plentiful supply on your menu.

When serving AMBER products, it’s a great idea to serve with salad vegetables to increase GREEN food consumption. Also limiting serve sizes per child is another way to ensure children aren’t consuming over the recommended levels for energy, saturated fat and sodium.

Have more questions regarding your menu items? The annual NOSHC subscription fee, includes a free menu assessment. Why not send in your menu, and get some great recommendations and ideas. Our menu assessments suit small and large menus and settings that have both limited and plentiful cooking equipment and space. Email oshc@naqld.org for more information.