The Eastern Zones within NL Health Services have implemented the first phase of a three-year Healthy Food Policy aimed at offering healthier food and drink options in all health care retail facilities including cafeterias, canteens, vending machines and gift shops.

The first phase of the changes, which came into effect in June, includes the removal of all candy and sports and energy drinks, and reducing the availability of deep and partially-fried foods.

By next June, all chips, vitamin water and soft drinks, both diet and sugary-sweetened, will be removed.

In the last phase in June of 2025 all bars and chocolate covered items will be gone, and deep or partially fried food will no longer be available.

Director of Public Health with the Eastern Zones of NL Health Services, Natalie Moody, says the policy was approved last year and is aimed not only at providing healthier options to patients and visitors, but staff as well.

She says they were also looking at health stats in the province, and they wanted to provide healthier options for patients and those visiting their facilities.