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

Feature

We Want To Make THAT!

March 8, 2024

Successfully school-ifying and scaling a recipe is not just about transforming ingredients; it鈥檚 about creating a culinary experience that resonates with K-12 students while adhering to nutritional requirements and other operational constraints.


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Feature

Creating a Culturally Relevant Cafeteria

March 8, 2024

Learn how you can expand your menus and branch out to serve up more meals from global cuisines to raise awareness about cultural differences and ensure all students feel seen.


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President鈥檚 Perspective

Influencing the Next Generation of 鈥淔oodies鈥

March 8, 2024

Food is a great way to bring people together. Food and family are closely interconnected, and food is often at the center of someone’s most cherished memories of people and occasions.


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