Perris approves health food ordinance

Starting July 1, most stores in Perris that sell food will be required to provide healthy food and beverages in their checkout aisles.

An ordinance passed recently by the city council applies to all stores larger than 2,500 square feet, according to a statement on the city’s website.

The law does not prohibit the sale of food or beverages that exceed the ordinance’s nutritional guidelines.

“This program will help our residents maintain a healthy lifestyle by giving them alternatives to traditional snack foods,” said Mayor Michael M. Vargas in the statement. “Our council is committed to providing our residents with healthy snack options that benefit all generations of consumers, and we look forward to a successful campaign.”

The was introduced and supported by Public Health Advocates, a statewide nonprofit, and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Inland Valley.

Perris is the second California city to pass such an ordinance. Berkeley passed a similar measure that took effect two years ago, according to the statement.