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

First Word

Finding Value in Exercises We Love to Hate

November 1, 2024

Stepping out of your comfort zone, even just a little, can be a game changer鈥攎aybe you鈥檒l find that sometimes those 鈥渄readed鈥 team-building exercises aren鈥檛 so bad after all.


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There’s AI for That

September 13, 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the world in big and small ways, some of which you might not even realize. Between home and work, you probably use (maybe even depend on) AI to cut out menial tasks, improve your efficiency, and save yourself a little bit of time and mental energy. Take a look at all the unexpected ways AI is making your life a little bit easier so you鈥檙e free to focus on the things that matter.


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Serving Up Innovation

September 13, 2024

So many professional fields are being changed by the rapid development of technology, and school foodservice is no different. From apps that let students order (and pay for) lunch straight from their smartphones to social media that lets you promote what鈥檚 on the menu every week, technology offers endless potential for your program to run more efficiently and reach more customers.


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