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.

52255248067_51c42bda2d_k

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

kids-at-school

School Nutrition Success Stories

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

52256238068_e6a4cdf90a_o

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

Read More

School Nutrition Magazine

What鈥檚 Cooking

Honoring Native American Cultures Through Food

November 4, 2022

Native Americans are often referred to as the 鈥渋nvisible race,鈥 and the classic story about the First Thanksgiving鈥攑ilgrims being welcomed…


Read More
What鈥檚 Cooking

Little Mimics Are Watching

November 4, 2022

Do you cringe when you see an adult behaving badly鈥攕peaking rudely, cursing a blue streak, being verbally or even physically…


Read More
What鈥檚 Cooking

The Cheese Stands Alone

November 4, 2022

When you sprinkle some grated Parmesan atop your pasta, are you unconsciously participating in cheese fraud? In Italy, the Parmigiano…


Read More