SAN MATEO, Calif. – Finding a healthy meal or snack among the mountains of corn dogs, cotton candy, funnel cakes and sodas at the fair might seem an impossible task. At the San Mateo County Fair this year, which runs now through June 17, some of the fair’s most popular food vendors will offer a variety of delicious, healthy menu items.
“As rates of chronic disease and obesity continue to rise across the country, more and more people are looking for healthier options at fairs and other community events,” says Julie Hosfeldt, R.D, registered dietitian for the Health System.
Though San Mateo County recently received the good news that it was one of the few counties in California whose childhood obesity rates had decreased, Hosfeldt says sugary drinks and unhealthy food continue to put the health of our children at risk. “This project is one small step in the right direction,” she said.
To participate in “Healthy Fare at the Fair”, food vendors voluntarily submit recipes for healthy menu items. Recipes must meet certain nutrition criteria, such as low fat content, reasonable portion sizes, and the use of fruits and vegetables. Healthy menu items will be advertised on large sign boards outside vendor booths, such as:
Coral Reef Smoothies (Pomegranate-Strawberry Smoothie, Fresh Fruit Cup, Strawberry-Banana Smoothie and Low-Sugar Strawberry Lemonade);
Noel’s Mexican Food (Chicken Taco, Veggie Taco, Whole Beans with Rice, and Veggie Burrito with Whole Wheat Tortilla); and
Thai Cuisine (Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl, Teriyaki Beef Rice Bowl)…and other vendors will be participating that day.
“Healthy Fare at the San Mateo County Fair” is a project of the San Mateo County Fair staff, San Mateo County Health System and WellKiddos™, an organization that advocates healthy food choices for children. “Healthy Fare” is modeled after a successful program in Marin County.
The San Mateo County Fair is held at the San Mateo County Event Center, located at 1346 Saratoga Ave. in San Mateo. For more information, contact Julie Hosfeldt at 650-573-3922 or jhosfeldt@smcgov.org.
Media Contact: Robyn Thaw (650) 573-3935
