Final Policy Memo Outline:
Throughout the semester, students have been exposed to a number of nutrition-related programs and policies.
Examples of these programs and policies include the FDA Nutrition Labeling Requirements, WIC program, the
National School Lunch Program, among others. You can also consider some of the nutrition policies or
programs on AUs campus (e.g., AUs wellness programs, healthier campus initiative, etc) for this assignment.
In this assignment, students will select a specific nutrition-related program or policy of their choice and will
write a two-page, single-spaced memo on said program or policy, and the memo will be addressed to a relevant
official (e.g., Senator, Congressman, mayor, University President, etc). The memo should be written using first
person narration, and should be written in support or in defense of the selected program or policy.
For purposes of this assignment, the policy memo should be organized using the SBAR format. The following
explains this particular formatting and what information should be included in each component:
S-Situation:
Identify yourself and the town/state/campus from which you are writing
Identify the program/policy by name and description
Identify the reason you are writing this memo (i.e., to show support)
Describe your concern for this program/policy
B-Background:
Give a brief explanation about why the program/policy was originally enacted
Briefly explain significant history and research that led to the program/policy (if applicable)
Briefly discuss some scientific literature that upholds this program/policy
A-Assessment:
Consider the current health status of your community and state why this program/policy is of
importance
Discuss potential implications for changes in the program/policy (i.e., what would happen if the policy
was not supported or funded again)
Discuss the scientific literature and how it continues to support the program/policy
R-Recommendation:
Explain what you want the program/policy maker to do; try to be specific about request and time frame
Make suggestions for ways in which the program/policy could be improved (if applicable)
