PELION, S.C. (AP) - Students in 34 elementary schools across South Carolina are eating fresh fruit and vegetables this school year under a federal program meant to curb hunger and fight obesity.

The program exposes students in high poverty schools to produce
many won't get at home.

Officials hope students become accustomed to reaching for healthy options, even ones they've never seen before, instead of chips or a candy bar.

The federal Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program was launched in
2002 as a pilot project in four states and an Indian tribe.

It was expanded this year to all 50 states and the territories.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, schools will spend between $50 and $75 per child.

No long-term studies have followed students' eating habits.

But a report to Congress last year noted students in participating
schools seem more health-conscious.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)