Carlisle, PA  In their ongoing efforts to help combat childhood obesity, the nutritionists at GIANT Food Stores and MARTIN'S Food Markets have launched Passport to Nutrition, a web-based program to educate kids on nutrition and living healthy lifestyles in a fun and interactive way. The website also provides parents and teachers with the necessary tools to help achieve healthy lifestyles both at home and at school.

"Childhood obesity has become a growing health issue and it's important for both kids and their parents to understand what they can do to eat healthy and maintain an active lifestyle," said Shirley Axe, health and wellness manager. "Whether through our Kids Healthy Ideas field trips or kid-friendly nutrition classes in store, combating childhood obesity is important to GIANT/MARTIN'S. We are proud to be among the first grocery chains in the country to create an interactive and educational program for kids' nutrition."

Passport to Nutrition is designed to give kids and their parents and teachers the information and motivation to achieve a healthier weight by improving one's lifestyle and eating habits. The program consists of four lessons which cover the food pyramid and physical activity, understanding food labels and portion control, how to eat enough fruits, vegetables and grains and healthy snacks and beverages. Accompanying each of the four lessons are downloadable worksheets, kid-friendly songs and interactive games to reinforce the healthy eating messages.

To access Passport to Nutrition, visit giantfoodstores.com/kidhealthyideas or martinsfoods.com/kidhealthyideas.

About GIANT/MARTIN'S

Headquartered in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, GIANT/MARTIN'S is a leading retail grocer in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia, operating under the names of GIANT Food Stores and MARTIN'S Food Markets and employing nearly 30,000 associates. Founded in 1923, GIANT and MARTIN'S have a long-standing commitment to eradicate hunger and improve the quality of life for children in addition to supporting the communities they serve, working with hundreds of local organizations annually. GIANT and MARTINS are Ahold companies. For more information visit www.GiantFoodStores.com and www.MartinsFoods.com.