Real Food In Our Schools
Kids need nutrient-rich, real foods to set them up for success in the classroom and beyond. Multiple studies have indicated that when kids have access to healthful food, they perform better in school and on tests while having fewer disciplinary problems. American public schools serve five billion meals each year – transforming their foodservice programs can ensure children have healthier, longer lifespans and more success in a sustainable world.
Many schools are already doing incredible work to ensure the meals they serve are healthful for students and the planet. The School Food Project at Boulder Valley School District (BVSD) serves nearly 14,000 scratch-cooked meals every day using fresh, nutritious, and local ingredients. Vacaville Unified School District has continued to serve thousands of students scratch-made and locally sourced breakfasts and lunches every day, even as they participated in remote learning.
Friends of the Earth recently released an Organic School Food Roadmap to help school foodservice teams incorporate more organic ingredients in their menus. Organic, plant-forward, and locally sourced scratch-cooked meals prioritize students’ health, support local farmers, and help restore our earth.