The US is in a "really dark moment" when it comes to children's health and needs to make it a priority, said Oliver, who tried to transform the diets of a West Virginia town with his 2010 ABC show "Jamie's Food Revolution" and is filming a new version in Los Angeles.

Improving what children eat at school alone can have a far-reaching, positive effect on their habits and health as adults, Oliver said Saturday during an Associated Press interview at the South Beach Wine and Food Festival. He said he doesn't have much faith that government will lead the way, but said the administration of President Barack Obama is on the right track.

Palin, in contrast, "clearly on this issue is a Froot Loop," he said in a reference to the highly sweetened breakfast cereal.