Second, budget pressures on school food authorities will probably continue. Therefore, all of us need to think innovatively. More than two years ago, I raised 53 questions about our farm programs. I am now circulating a similar set of questions dealing with agricultural research. In the same vein, it is appropriate to have an honest appraisal of the school lunch program.
Some questions are broad in scope.
At the same time, the nature of the nutrition issue also leads us to some very specific questions. All of these questions deserve attention. In addition to the American School Food Service Association, we have other witnesses who are intimately involved in nutrition and food service. I expect they will add to the innovative thinking that this important subject deserves. I hope that this hearing is the first step in a public discourse aimed at ensuring that we are meeting our children's nutritional needs as the new century unfolds.