United States

Department of Agriculture

Center for Nutrition

Policy and Promotion

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Nearly 32 million children receive meals throughout the school day. These meals are based on nutrition 

standards from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. New nutrition standards for schools increase access to healthy 

food and encourage kids to make smart choices. Schools are working to make meals more nutritious, keep all 

students hunger-free, and help children maintain or reach a healthy weight.

Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for more information.

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tips

Nutrition 

Education Series

Fruits Grains

Vegetables Protein

Dairy

DG TipSheet No. 21

August 2012

 USDA is an equal opportunity

provider and employer. 

healthier school meals for your children

	 Your children benefit from healthier meals that include

more whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy 

products, lower sodium foods, and less saturated fat. Talk to 

your child about the changes in the meals served at school. 

more fruits and vegetables 

every day 

Kids have fruits and vegetables at school every day. 

A variety of vegetables are served througout the week 

including red, orange, and dark-green vegetables.

more whole-grain foods 

Half of all grains offered are wholegrain-rich foods such as whole-grain pasta, brown 

rice, and oatmeal. Some foods are made by replacing half 

the refined-grain (white) flour with whole-grain flour.

both low-fat milk (1%) and fat-free 

milk varieties are offered

Children get the same calcium and 

other nutrients, but with fewer calories and 

less saturated fat by drinking low-fat (1%)

or fat-free milk. For children who can’t drink 

milk due to allergies or lactose intolerance, schools can offer 

milk substitutes, such as calcium-fortified soy beverages.

less saturated fat and salt

A variety of foods are offered to reduce the salt and 

saturated fat in school meals. Main dishes may 

include beans, peas, nuts, tofu, or seafood 

as well as lean meats or poultry. Ingredients

and foods contain less salt (sodium).

more water

 Schools can provide water pitchers and cups on 

 lunch tables, a water fountain, or a faucet that allows 

students to fill their own bottles or cups with drinking water. 

Water is available where meals are served. 

new portion sizes 

 School meals meet children’s calorie needs, based 

 on their age. While some portions may be smaller, 

kids still get the nutrition they need to keep them growing 

and active. 

stronger local wellness programs

New policies offer opportunities for parents and 

communities to create wellness programs that 

address local needs. Talk with your principal, teachers, school 

board, parent-teacher association, and others to create a 

strong wellness program in your community.

MyPlate can help kids make 

 better food choices

Show children how to make 

healthy food choices at school by 

using MyPlate. Visit ChooseMyPlate.gov

for tips and resources.

resources for parents

School meal programs can provide much of 

what children need for health and growth. But 

for many parents, buying healthy foods at home is a challenge. 

Learn more about healthy school meals and other nutrition 

assistance programs at www.fns.usda.gov.