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

Conferences & Events, Legislative Action Conference

Registration Now Open for SNA鈥檚 Legislative Action Conference

November 15, 2024

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School Nutrition Magazine

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When Local Means Global

November 1, 2023

With a growing immigrant population, what was once considered 鈥渆thnic food鈥 in the U.S. has now become part of the American diet鈥攁nd part of school menus!


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What’s the Big Deal About ChatGPT?

November 1, 2023

Learn more about the popular AI ChatGPT, and discover how AI can be used to make your work and your school nutrition program more efficient.


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‘Tis the Season: Food Forecasts

November 1, 2023

Whole Foods Market is first out of the gate with predictions for the hottest food trends consumers can expect in 2024鈥攕tay tuned for other predictions in the coming weeks.


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