Forum: HPB, ECDA committed to working with pre-schools on serving healthy meals

We refer to the letter “Don’t normalise having ultra-processed foods in pre-schools” (April 6) and thank Ms Au Hoi Ting for highlighting the importance of quality meals for young children and pre-schools’ role in nurturing healthy eating habits.

The Health Promotion Board (HPB) agrees that establishing healthy eating habits early in life supports children’s growth and development. The Healthy Meals in Pre-schools Programme (HMPP) aims to provide balanced meals in pre-schools that include wholegrains, proteins, vegetables and fruit, while limiting sugar, sodium and saturated fat. Beverages containing artificial sweeteners are also not allowed. This is to reduce exposure to overly sweet and salty foods that could dull children’s palates over time.

We understand Ms Au’s concern about processed foods. Generally, food products with higher levels of processing tend to have less favourable nutrient profiles. However, not all processed foods have poor nutrition profiles. Some processed foods provide beneficial nutrients – wholemeal bread, for example, provides dietary fibre that supports digestive health, while calcium-fortified soya milk and cheese slices offer calcium and protein. The Healthier Choice Symbol (HCS) helps consumers to identify healthier alternatives within the same food product categories. All HCS-certified products, including sweet spreads and sweetened cereals, must meet standards for lower sugar, sodium and fat content. Under the HMPP, while processed food is not recommended, schools may serve those that meet the HCS standard.

We regularly review both HMPP and HCS guidelines to align with emerging evidence and international developments, while ensuring they meet children’s nutritional needs and promote healthier choices.

HPB also works closely with pre-schools to support their implementation of the guidelines, by providing practical guides and resources such as grocery guides. These resources equip educators and kitchen staff with knowledge and tools to design balanced meals.

In addition, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) would like to clarify that there is no prohibition on the feeding of expressed breast milk to children beyond 18 months in pre-schools. Parents who wish to do so may approach their child’s pre-school with their request. 

We remain committed to working with pre-schools and parents to ensure children receive nutritionally balanced and developmentally appropriate meals that support their long-term health and well-being.

Irene Tay
Deputy Director, Healthy Food and Dining Division
Health Promotion Board

Tng Wei Ling
Deputy Director, Regulation and Licensing
Early Childhood Development Agency