A Leap Beyond Sugar: Healthy Eating for Young People

In response to this growing trend, A Leap Beyond Sugar was launched – a project promoted by the Como Medical Association and the Cultural Frame of Food Association, with the support of Como 1907. The initiative involves around 200 students from nine classes across four lower secondary schools, with the aim of raising awareness among young people about the importance of healthy eating and a balanced lifestyle. The project has engaged not only the students, but also schools, teachers and families.

“We began by exploring the students’ eating habits and encouraging them to reflect on how much hidden sugar is found in the foods they consume every day,” explains Pamela Fogliaro, a biologist-nutritionist involved in the project. “Our goal wasn’t just to provide theoretical information, but to empower the students to become active agents of change. We guided them through practical activities – for example, mindful grocery shopping – where they learnt how to read nutrition labels, identify more balanced products and make healthier choices. In the kitchen, they experimented with alternative ingredients to prepare tasty and nutritious meals, showing them that a dessert can still be delicious even without refined sugars.”

The project gave the students a chance to put what they had learnt into practice, involving them in a cooking workshop where, in small groups, they created low-sugar recipes. Encouraging them to cook independently at home, avoid packaged and highly processed foods, and adopt healthier eating habits were among the project’s main goals.

“The aim isn’t to impose a strict diet, but to teach young people how to make more informed choices. It’s not about dieting – it’s about promoting a lifestyle that reduces the consumption of foods high in sugar and fat,” adds Fogliaro. “Young people can be the first to spread this awareness within their families and among their peers, becoming ambassadors for a healthier way of living.”