Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America鈥檚 students are well-fed and poised for academic success.

From nutrition requirements and statistics to school nutrition success stories and national campaigns, this is everything you need to know about our nation鈥檚 school meal programs.

52255248067_51c42bda2d_k

Key Facts

School Nutrition Standards

To receive federal reimbursements, school meals are required to meet strict nutrition standards, offering a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low- or fat-free milk.

School Meal Statistics

Nearly 30 million students eat school lunch every day. Get more statistics regarding the nation鈥檚 school meals programs.

The People Behind School Meals

kids-at-school

School Nutrition Success Stories

Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America鈥檚 students.

52256238068_e6a4cdf90a_o

School Nutrition Professionals

From chefs to nutritionists and industry partners to state agencies, learn more about the people who collaborate to ensure school meal programs thrive.

Annual Observances

National School Lunch Week

School lunches are worth celebrating! Learn more about National School Lunch Week (NSLW), commemorated annually in October.

National School Breakfast Week

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), celebrated annually in March, honors the importance of a nutritious morning meal in fueling students for success.

School Lunch Hero Day

Recognize the impact of school nutrition professionals on School Lunch Hero Day (SLHD), occurring annually on the first Friday of May.

Latest News

SN Plus "The Power of Giving Back"
SNA News, SNA Publications

SN Plus: The Power of Giving Back

October 30, 2024

Read More

School Nutrition Magazine

Food Focus

Stretching Your Budget With USDA Foods

October 19, 2020

Still colloquially known as 鈥渃ommodity foods,鈥 the USDA Foods in Schools program serves up a variety of versatile ingredients. School…


Read More
Feature

Mastering the Meal Kit

October 19, 2020

Innovative school nutrition teams transform the challenges of curbside meal service into exciting new opportunities. When it comes to ramping…


Read More
Feature

First, Survive. Then, THRIVE

October 19, 2020

More prompts and guides to help you get through this challenging school year with your program鈥攁nd your spirit鈥攊ntact. This should…


Read More