Why are beverages containing sugar substitutes excluded from elementary and middle schools but permitted in high schools under these Guidelines?

There have been well over 350 studies on the health impact of sugar substitutes suggesting that sugar substitutes consumed in reasonable amounts are safe in all age groups, including children. Their use has been approved by regulatory agencies around the world and is endorsed by the American Dietetic Association as a helpful way to reduce caloric consumption. Despite these facts some parents are concerned about their children consuming sugar substitutes, especially during developmental years. However, by high school young people are making many of their own food and beverage choices, and diet drinks are considered a reasonable alternative to full calorie beverages.