Release No. 0241.00

Mary Beth Schultheis (202) 720-4623
mary_beth.schultheis@usda.gov
Jean Daniel (703) 305-2286
jean.daniel@fns.usda.gov

USDA UNVEILS NEW NUTRITION MASCOT FOR CHILDREN

       St. Louis, MO, July 18, 2000 - Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman today introduced American kids to the great purple Power Panther, USDA's new mascot to encourage children and their families to eat healthy and exercise.

       "This new character gets your attention for an important public service message. It teaches children the importance of balancing what you eat with what you do," said Glickman, speaking to the American School Food Service Association. "The right behaviors now can prevent serious health problems later in life."

        Dietary habits are established very early in life. More than 14% of children and 11% of adolescents are overweight, often as a result of poor nutrition. Healthy eating and physical activity are important life skills that help children grow and develop to their optimal potential.

        The national, healthy eating and physical activity campaign is designed to reach school-aged children (age 2 - 18 years) and their caregivers through materials and activities that incorporate the Power Panther and it's message, "Eat Smart, Play Hard.". Caregivers include parents, guardians, childcare providers, after school providers and teachers.

        The campaign slogan EAT SMART, PLAY HARD and the Power Panther nutrition mascot will be used in Federal, State and local nutrition program materials. Partnerships to distribute these educational materials will be developed with non-profit, corporate and local cooperators. Health and nutrition group partners include: the American Dietetic Association, the American School Food Service Association, the National Association of WIC Directors, the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, the Society for Nutrition Education and the International Food Information Council.

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