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.

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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

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School Nutrition Success Stories

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

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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

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School Nutrition Magazine

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Honeydew melon is often seen as the filler ingredient of every fruit salad. But according to a recent article in USA Today, honeydew is establishing itself as a nutritious fruit worth including in your average diet.聽


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Everyone Loves a Friendly Competition

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Reminiscent of many of our favorite cooking competition TV shows, Director of Dining Services Nizam Saad, of Norwich Public Schools came up with the idea for the Discovery Kitchen Cook-off鈥攁 cooking competition among four teams of two middle school students to see who could create the best dish.


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What Influences Food and Beverage Decisions

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The International Food Information Council recently released their 2024 Food & Health Survey, covering a wide range of topics, from perceptions about food safety and what makes food 鈥渉ealthy鈥 to the impact of social media on food and nutrition and what factors are most important in driving purchases.


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