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NEWS | March 20, 2012

'Go for Green' initiative enables better food choices at DFAC

By Senior Airman Jason J. Brown 633rd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

The 633rd Force Support Squadron will introduce the "Go for Green" initiative at Langley's dining facilities May 14.

"Go for Green," or G4G, is a point-of-decision labeling system providing Airmen with a quick assessment of menu offerings using "stop light"-style labels. "Green" items are foods Airmen should eat often, including fewer calories, less fat and sodium, and more fiber. "Yellow" items are suggested for occasional consumption, and contain an average amount of calories. "Red" items should be eaten rarely, and include foods high in calories, sugar, fats and sodium.

G4G describes an ideal "Green" meal as:

· Entrees with less than 300 calories and 10 grams of fat
· Starchy sides with less than 200 calories
· Vegetables with less than 100 calories
· Desserts with less than 150 calories and 6 grams of fat
· Dairy from fat-free to 1 percent
· Low-calories or calorie-free beverages

According to Master Sgt. Francis Abrenica, the 633rd FSS Crossbow DFAC manager, each item along the serving line will feature a color-coded decal to classify it in accordance with the G4G system. Additionally, the Crossbow Dining Facility and Raptor Café flight kitchen will display posters and table placards describing the program, and offering recommendations to diners.

The goal of the program is to educate and encourage Airmen to choose healthier options during meals in order to improve overall performance.

"The program will enhance the fitness of our Airmen," Abrenica said. "If they eat correctly, it helps them exercise correctly and maintain Air Force standards."