The School Lunch Evolution
What’s new at school–with school-lunch that is? Registered Dietitian Alysia Spooner-Gomez, a Dietitian and school Food Service General Manager, helps parents 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).
Do School Meals Use High Quality Ingredients?
Schools get ingredients from a variety of sources, including top manufacturers and American farmers. Many school chefs use fresh, seasonal ingredients when possible—and plan a variety of meals the students are used to eating at home.
What’s a Parent to Do?
Know about and talk up the positives of school meals. “That helps to break down the stigma that school lunch isn’t healthy,” Alysia says. Sit down with your child to look at the week’s menu and try sampling new foods at home before they try them at school. Most of all, stay engaged! “The more parents get involved, the better experience is for the students.”
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.