Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America’s 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’s 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’s 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’s 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

Feature

Ensuring Dietary Inclusivity: Meet Religious Needs With School Meals

May 8, 2024

How can you accommodate students who follow special diets for religious reasons? Many school districts across the country have found ways to serve these students and create more inclusive spaces, and if they can do it, so can you!


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Feature

Let’s Talk Plant Power!

May 8, 2024

A Q&A with registered dietitian nutritionist Chef Vahista Ussery, MS, MBA, RDN, on the world of plant-forward diets.


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Feature

From A to Z

May 8, 2024

Your go-to guide for strengthening your special-diets vocabulary: use this glossary of common types of special diets to help build your knowledge and confidence on the wide range of special dietary needs you’re most likely to come across.


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