USDA To Require Healthier Meals In Schools With Updated Nutrition Standards

Less salt and fat. More whole grains, fruit, veggies and low-fat dairy. This is what kids can expect in the school lunchroom soon, according to new nutrition standards for school meals announced today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and first lady Michelle Obama.

“When we send our kids to school, we expect that they won’t be eating the kind of fatty, salty, sugary foods that we try to keep them from eating at home,” Obama said in a statement. “We want the food they get at school to be the same kind of food we would serve at our own kitchen tables.”

And remember all the political shenanigans over pizza as a veggie? Yes, pizza can technically still count as one serving of veggies. But that slice of pizza won’t be served alone. The new standards call for two servings of vegetables per meal. So the pizza will come with a side of carrots or green beans.  Read More

Dr. Jay’s Note:  Far from perfect but a movement in the right direction. For those of us that are more nutritionally mindful & aware, packing school lunches is still the healthiest option.