The School Lunch Evolution
Did you know that today federal legislation requires schools to provide students a healthy, balanced diet high in nutrients, one that taps into all food groups, and includes more vegetables, fruit, and whole grains in every meal. In many cases, the school lunch transformation includes fun foods prepared in interesting ways that kids love outside of school.
Lunches are carefully planned by dietitians and chefs—many of whom have their own kids in the school system—and they’re built with a focus on menu variety and student satisfaction. We talked with Registered Dietitian Alysia Spooner-Gomez, a school Food Service General Manager, to help us better understand what goes into school lunches today, and why these meals are a healthy option.
What’s in a school meal?
“School meals today are carefully designed to meet federal nutrition standards that require schools to limit salt, fat, and sugar content, and serve more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables so kids get the right amounts of key vitamins and minerals,” says Alysia (pictured).
Why are foods like chicken nuggets on menus?
Even though school menus have familiar items like chicken nuggets and pizza, they’re not the same as you’d find in a fast-food restaurant. “School lunch chicken nuggets are baked, they use whole grain breading, and they have less salt,” says Alysia. Pizzas have whole-wheat crust, no-added-sodium tomato sauce, and lower fat cheese.
What if a child doesn’t like the school lunches?
Speak up. No school meal program is perfect. Some schools have a wellness committee, or a family advisory committee that meet and take recommendations. Get involved and stay engaged with your school. “It really helps to have positive and supportive parents,” Alysia says.
Note: Since everyone’s health history and nutritional needs are so different, please make sure that you talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian to get advice about the diet and exercise plan that‘s right for you.