Top nutritionist opposed to Subway chain in a UK college

Subway is set to open its first branch in a UK college, but a top nutritionist speaks up...

13:58 25 July 2012

Subway is set to open its first branch in a UK college, but a top nutritionist speaks up against the plan. The nutritionist said that letting fast food into schools will set the country back several years. “It’s the kind of decision that will put us right back to square one.” 

 

The nutritionist, Annabel Karmel, established credibility prior to comments: “I’ve been working with food and particularly children’s nutrition for 21 years and recently we’ve made progress with stricter guidelines for school dinners.”

 

“Surely they will have to change their recipes in order to meet the nutritional measures required?” This comment was made based on the nature of Subway’s sandwiches, like the meat ball pepperoni which has 600 calories per serving. Aside from the calories, Subway sandwiches also have high levels of salt in the bread and meats. 

 

She also expressed concern about the example this will set: “What’s to stop McDonald’s or Burger King? These places, although fine as an occasional treat, aren’t for everyday consumption.”

 

“A child’s tummy is only small. Once all that bread’s in there, it leaves no room for the fatty acids, iron, and calcium they also need.”

 

“It’s not that I think food should be made from scratch in schools. (That’s) more expensive and without always having the the time to make (food) taste good, there’s no standard quality and it can put kids off.”

 

Her suggestion is: “The key is to put the time and money into frozen healthy meals, such as good quality spaghetti Bolognese with vegetables or even burgers made with lean beef.”