Albertsons to show kids healthful eating habits

Albertsons plans to offer field trips to introduce children in kindergarten through fourth grades to healthful eating habits, with the aim of making a dent in the childhood obesity epidemic.

The program, called Albertsons Healthy Eaters, was developed with the grocery store chain's nutritionist Heidi Diller to ensure the field trips will provide children with correct nutritional information in a way that they can understand and embrace.

Children in kindergarten, first and second grades will learn simple concepts demonstrated through interactive experiences to promote understanding of healthy behaviors and choices. Youngsters in third and fourth grades will learn decisionmaking related to healthful eating habits and nutrition. Lessons include label reading, nutrients, fats and portion sizes.

At the end of the tour — which will be offered in Utah and seven other Western states — children will receive free samples of healthful foods and goodie bags.