While the Federal Government continues to subsidize the wrong food in the Farm Bill, school lunch changes are finally showing some health promise.
Looking at a menu from Mecklenburg County Schools in North Carolina we see choices that aren't perfect but they are a vast improvement over the likes of Frito pie and daily pizza. Improved main items are fajitas, lasagna, sub sandwich, chicken taco and baked chicken. Unfortunately, corn dogs, weekly pizza and chicken nuggets still grace the menu. We need to push for more vegetarian options as main choice.
Side items are finally mostly vegetables, fruits and bean dishes. Most schools are going away from sugar laden beverages and encouraging water with meals. Halleluia, a miracle!
As consumers we still need to keep up the pressure on the schools to continue the changes. The best way to continue the challenge is to vote with your pocket book. On days that the school is offering a poor quality lunch, pack your child's lunch.
At my children's school, the lunch offerings are only reasonable 2 out of the 5 days. So we only buy on those days. The consistency of negative purchasing power will push through change that will keep your child healthy and focused to learn.
Support your local Farmer's Market - their food tastes better anyway.
Dr. M
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