NEW REGULATIONS ON SCHOOL LUNCHES

New federal regulations that took effect with the beginning of the school year are an attempt to make lunch and breakfast at school healthier.  Many of the new rules have to do with adding more whole grains as well as fruits and vegetables to meals.

At least half of the grains used in bread and cereals products at schools now have to be whole grains.  Students also must have at least one fruit or vegetable on their plate with every lunch.

School are required to provide a balance of different types of vegetables - leafy greens and red or yellow veggies - over the course of a school week.  Schools also can only serve skim or one-percent milk this year.  More regulations on other a la carte items and school breakfasts are scheduled to come out over the next year.

National School Lunch Program