December 22, 2011—What breakfast item would students most want to see prepared in a “dream kitchen” in their school cafeteria? Pancakes top the list, according to a survey of more than 2,000 3rd-, 4th- and 5th-graders who responded to a recent online Dream Kitchen® survey conducted by youth marketing firm Y-Pulse, LLC. Pancakes were selected as the favorite breakfast item over waffles by a 2-to-1 margin. Chocolate chip was the favorite flavor of the majority of respondents, followed by blueberry.
When it comes to toppings, about half of the pancake fans chose traditional maple syrup as their syrup variety of choice, followed by blueberry. A few respondents said that they would like “every kind” of syrup available, including such flavors as apricot, pineapple and strawberry.
Eggs—especially scrambled—was another popular breakfast item among the respondents, selected well ahead of cereal and rolls. Bacon was the most popular meat item in the survey. Indeed, respondents indicated they would like to have bacon on the menu not only for breakfast, but for lunch in menu items such as sandwiches, burgers and salads.
While the top wish list items were traditional breakfast favorites, the survey results also reveal that kids ages 8 to 11 are interested in bolder and ethnic flavors. Such results also demonstrate this generation’s food exposure and knowledge. For example, one respondent mentioned chorizo sausage as a breakfast burrito ingredient, while others said that they enjoy crêpes.
“Foodservice operators looking to improve their breakfast operations or best reach their patrons can deliver on some of those demands… with offerings that are classic in form yet presented in a way that relays freshness and taste,” says Sharon Olson, co-founder of Y-Pulse.
For more information about Y-Pulse, LLC, visit www.ypulse.org.
Y-Pulse, LLC
December 21, 2011—The first Love Your Veggies™ Lunch Break for Schools fundraising event takes place February 27-March 2, 2012, in cities across the United States. Chefs of all industry segments are invited to participate in this week-long fundraiser that is being hosted in partnership with the makers of Hidden Valley® Salad Dressings. Proceeds will help promote healthy eating habits and proper nutrition for children through the Chefs Move to Schools program.
School nutrition operations are encouraged to prepare lunches to sell as a fundraiser to adults in the community. The meal must include a Hidden Valley Ranch product, to be provided by Hidden Valley. Participating operations are asked to create a lunch inspired by the White House guidelines for the Chefs Move to Schools initiative that includes whole grains, lowfat dairy products, low salt and sugar and fresh produce.
Adults who can help extend the American Culinary Federation’s work to teach kids healthy habits and further fund the effort to help kids learn to make healthy choices are the suggested audience for the fundraiser. Celebrity chef Cat Cora serves as the national spokesperson for the fundraising campaign, so you might consider mentioning this connection in your promotional materials to help draw adults in your community to your event.
Schools interested in participating can register at www.acfchefs.org/ACFSource/LunchBreakForSchools/index.aspx. The suggested registration deadline is January 15, 2012.
For more information, including details about how funds will be collected, visit www.acfchefs.org/ACFSource/LunchBreakForSchools/index.aspx.
Love Your Veggies Lunch Break for Schools
Mark Saturday, March 3, 2012 on your calendars for the LAC pre-conference session “Procurement 101”. This is a session you do not want to miss! Anita Pereira-Sekhon, Program Analyst, Program Analysis & Monitoring Branch, USDA/FNS and Lynn Rodgers-Kuperman, Chief, Program Analysis & Monitoring Branch, Child Nutrition Division, USDA/FNS will provide a comprehensive overview of Federal requirements, policies, and regulations relating to procurement in the school meals programs. Discussion will focus on forecasting; contracting with foodservice management companies, distributors, manufacturers, etc; crediting of USDA Foods; cost allowability; general financial management; and indirect cost requirements. Emphasis will be placed on appropriate procurement methods, developing solicitations, bid/proposal selection, contract awards and will include information on both direct and indirect costs, the Federal cost principals and considerations for the SFA when assessing indirect costs charged to the nonprofit school foodservice account. The total cost of this informative session is $100 and participants will receive 3 CEUs.
But wait… there’s more! On Wednesday, March 7, 2012, be sure to linger through the end of the Legislative Action Conference, which will wrap-up by 11:30am. The Closing General Session features former USDA Secretaries, John Block and Dan Glickman, along with other experts and policymakers to review the increasing role that agriculture and nutrition have in decisions and policy development. Block was Secretary from 1981-1986 and Glickman was Secretary from 1995 – 2001. The discussion will delve into the link between funding programs and the constraints on budgets. The goal of this session is to provide perspectives from leaders and experts on the importance of balance, priorities and policies that impact our ability to provide quality, nutritious meals to our nation’s children in an efficient and healthy manner. You don’t want to miss this unique opportunity to hear candid conversations with former USDA secretaries.
Register today! Visit www.schoolnutrition.org/lac
If you are thinking about partnering with a chef, take advantage of the following free resources available for schools and for chefs :
1. Free webinar:"Chefs in Schools -Increasing Participation and gaining renewed excitement around your school meals program"
Download the recent webinar at www.schoolnutrition.org/chefsinschools
Webinar made possible by the School Nutrition Foundation in partnership with the National Dairy Council
2. Grants for Chefs Move to Schools
The Culinary Trust is offering grants to support culinary professionals engaging in activities that support the Chefs Move to Schools initiative. Culinary professionals may seek funding for any program that promotes health and wellness in schools. For example, the grant may be used to plant a garden, teach a class, promote or create a wellness program for students or parents or assist in creating a school curriculum that focuses on healthy eating. Chefs working with school cafeteria professionals can also apply.
Grant applicants must have the support of the school principal and, in some cases, additional school personnel. The deadline is Dec. 30. The next grant application deadline will be March 31, 2012. Download an application here:
The California Table Grape Commission is the founding sponsor of the grants.
3. “Cooking Matters for Chefs and Kids”, from Share-Our-Strength, an easy-to-use guide that helps chefs and others provide hands-on instruction that will help kids develop a love of cooking and the skills to make healthy food choices wherever they go. Please click here to download the kit.
Need more information? Visit the Chefs Move to Schools website
Please note that this webinar has been postponed. SNF will schedule a new date for the webinar when the publication date for the final rule is available.The School Nutrition Foundation (SNF), in partnership with the School Nutrition Association (SNA), and the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), is hosting a FREE Webinar Wednesday entitled: “The New School Meal Patterns: What You Need to Know.” Through this webinar, SNA members will be among the first in the child nutrition community to hear from USDA representatives about the details that make up the final rule.
Since January 2011, when the USDA issued proposed meal patterns calling for more produce and whole grains and less sodium and calories in school meals, school nutrition professionals have eagerly awaited the final regulations and clarity on what changes they must make to school menus to meet the new standards. During this webinar, SNA members will learn what the final regulation entails and how the new standards differ from current requirements.
The webinar will be moderated by Cindy Brooks of the School Nutrition Association Public Policy and Legislation Committee with guest speakers: Dr. Janey Thornton, PhD, SNS, Deputy Under Secretary for Food, Nutrition, and Consumer Services at USDA; and Cindy Long, Director, Child Nutrition Division for Food and Nutrition Service at USDA.
The learning objectives of this webinar are:
For more information about this webinar and to register, visit: www.schoolnutrition.org/finalmealpatterns.
SNA members will earn 1 CEU for attending this webinar. SNF webinars are offered free of charge.
December 15, 2011 – Online Registration is now open for the 40th annual gathering of school nutrition professionals in Washington, D.C., for SNA’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC). This year’s event, taking place March 4-7, 2012, at the J.W. Marriott Hotel, is your opportunity to be an advocate for children and make a difference in the future of school nutrition. 2012 is a monumentally important year for our profession, as it brings with it the implementation of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act and the pending new regulations. Plus, as we rapidly approach the next presidential election, LAC 2012 promises the ideal setting to discuss issues and challenges, and share ideas that will help us move forward and build upon the achievements of the last 40 years. But this discussion and exchange will only be effective if SNA members, allies and advocates come together in force and united in support of the mission of the school meals programs.Why is it so important that you not miss out on this historic milestone? Because LAC is considered one of the most productive and exciting events in school nutrition! Because this 40th annual gathering will have it all:
These are just some of the wonderful opportunities that await you at LAC 2012, so make plans today to join us in our nation’s capital for four inspiring days as we walk the halls of Congress, network with colleagues and discuss the state of our programs!
To learn more about LAC 2012, including invited speakers, registration and hotel accommodations, visit www.schoolnutrition.org/lac. The special Early Bird registration rate deadline is January 20, 2012, so don’t delay—register today!
LAC 2012
Register for LAC
December 14, 2011 – The theme for next month’s Child Nutrition Industry Conference (CNIC), SNA’s annual meeting of operators and industry partners, will focus on “Create Your Roadmap for Change” and is designed to provide attendees with ideas, information and solutions for navigating the most complex changes and challenges happening in the school nutrition profession today. But with Orlando, Fla., serving as the backdrop, CNIC attendees are also encouraged to recharge their batteries by having some fun when conference sessions are done for the day.
For starters, the Omni ChampionsGate Resort is the ideal place to relax and unwind, featuring golf and recreation activities and a spa. But if that’s not enough to keep you busy, here are six of Orlando’s famous theme parks available for you to visit and explore:
Disney’s Magic KingdomFrom Cinderella’s Castle to Space Mountain, this is where the world of “make-believe” comes alive and where fun surrounds you in seven wondrous lands of enchantment. CNIC attendees can save money on select Disney tickets with advance purchase by clicking here.
Disney’s EpcotThis park celebrates the cultures and wonders of the world through dazzling shows, interactive experiences and amazing attractions. CNIC attendees can save money on select Disney tickets with advance purchase by clicking here.
Discovery CoveThis is where you can swim with dolphins and marvel at the sight, sound and touch of such incredible creatures as topical fish, sharks, exotic birds and more.
SeaWorld OrlandoThis park will immerse you in the mysteries of the sea, from up-close animal experiences and unforgettable performances to the next generation of thrills.
Universal Studios FloridaGo behind the scenes, beyond the screen and jump right into the action of your favorite movies at Universal Studios, the world's premier movie- and TV-based theme park.
Universal’s Islands of AdventureHere timeless legends, cartoons and comic books come to life right before your eyes. You can explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you'll be transported into a magical world of thrills.
These are just a few of the parks that make Orlando the theme park capital of the world. And, of course, there’s so much more to see and do, from tours and attractions to shopping and dining. To learn more about what there is to see and do while in town, go to www.visitorlando.com or http://sna.orlandomeetinginfo.com.
There is no way to list everything you will learn and see while attending CNIC, but you’re guaranteed to walk away with powerful knowledge, lasting partnerships and unforgettable memories. So what are you waiting for?! Set your GPS and join us for CNIC 2012! If you haven’t yet registered, it’s not too late! Simply fill out the onsite registration form and turn it in at the CNIC Registration desk!
For details about the conference, including speakers, events and more, please visit the dedicated CNIC 2012 section of SchoolNutrition.org.
CNIC 2012
CNIC Onsite Registration Form
December 13, 2011—Interested in learning more about the effect of offer vs. serve approaches on the consumption of fruits and vegetables by elementary school children? How about perceived barriers and benefits to the School Breakfast Program? The Fall 2011 issue of The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management is now available online. Each issue of this online exclusive publication features several research articles on topics critical to the successful operation of school meal programs.
In addition to the topics mentioned already, articles in this latest issue also focus on research related to vending machine offerings in middle schools and the development and evaluation of nutrition education competencies for preschool-aged children. You also will find a research update from the National Food Service Management Institute, as well as abstracts from the Child Nutrition Showcase poster display at SNA’s Annual National Conference in Nashville last July.
The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management is a peer-reviewed research journal published twice a year. To read the current issue, visit www.schoolnutrition.org/Content.aspx?id=16319.
The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management—Fall 2011
December 9, 2011— Nutrition-related topics are popular subjects of discussion as school nutrition professionals await the release of the new meal patterns. To go along with these hot topics of conversation, the December issue of School Nutrition, SNA’s award-winning flagship publication, takes a look at the latest nutrition news that you can use both on the job and in your personal life.
The December issue also features an overview of alternate proteins, including cheese, yogurt, dry beans and peas, eggs and peanut butter.
In “The Power of Two,” School Nutrition chats with Janey Thornton, PhD, SNS, and Katie Wilson, PhD, SNS, two SNA past presidents who now hold positions of national influence. Learn about the surprises and opportunities they have experienced in their new positions, as well as challenges and frustrations, and be sure to take a look at the important advice they give to their peers working in schools and districts across the country.
If you’re like the vast majority of Americans, you consume less than half of the recommended levels of fiber. Learn more about what fiber is, why you need it and how to incorporate it into your diet in “Become a Fan of Fiber.”
While it’s your right as a consumer to purchase and use any product on the market, health fraud—specifically the promotion of false or unproven products for profit—costs consumers billions of dollars each year. What should you know to help protect yourself? “Snake Oil or Solid Science?” examines the real deal behind advertised nutrition and health claims and promotions. Bonus Web Content: Dietary supplements fall into a special category under the general umbrella of “foods,” not drugs. Learn more about how to evaluate the claims of these products.
While meat-based foods are among the more conventional sources of protein in the American diet, “meat alternates” allowed in food-based menu plans for school meals, such as cheese, yogurt, dry beans and peas, eggs and peanut butter, deserve some attention, too. Discover these different protein sources in “Take Your Pick…of Proteins.” Bonus Web Content: If you’re looking for details about how other protein-rich sources like nuts, seeds, soy, yogurt and pasta can help to meet your protein needs, don’t miss this accompanying online-only content.
School Nutrition –December 2011
December 8, 2011 - Do you see it, just there in the distance? It’s coming closer and clearer into view. If you look closely enough, you will see it’s not your average conference or your ordinary learning experience. It’s SNA’s 2012 Annual National Conference (ANC) and a whole new horizon of opportunities waiting to be explored!
That’s right, with the start of the New Year just around the corner, ANC 2012 is starting to come into view, and NOW is the time for you to mark your calendar for July 15-18, 2012. The year’s theme is “Explore New Horizons,” and the ‘Mile High City’ of Denver will be our backdrop for a conference that will help you discover just how to advance your career beyond where it is today to where you want it to be tomorrow. Over the course of four days you will discover 90+ education sessions, 300+ exhibit booths, 3 general sessions and numerous events, all designed to provide you with the information you need to meet new challenges and seize new opportunities.
And while winter is just getting its frosty grip around much of the country, SNA has some exciting news about this summer’s conference that's sure to warm up your day! First there was Patti LaBelle, then Frankie Valli and Kool & The Gang, and this past July it was Alan Jackson… but this coming July, to help bring your ANC experience to a close, SNA will be bringing you a ‘Fun, Fun, Fun’ evening with the American pop group sensation, The Beach Boys! Break out the sunglasses and Hawaiian shirts; when this surf-rock band takes the stage it’s more than just a feel-good performance, it’s a time machine that will take you back to a magical time in music history.
For 50 years, The Beach Boys have epitomized the laid-back spirit of the summer, and their sun-kissed, classic songs have become pieces of Americana. Since breaking onto the music scene with their first hit, “Surfin’” in 1961, the band has had a continuous string of chart-topping hits that have spanned nearly forty years, including: “California Girls,” “I Get Around,” “Surfin’ USA,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “Surfer Girl,” “Help Me Rhonda,” “Barbara Ann,” “Don’t Worry Baby,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Kokomo” and “Good Vibrations.”
The ANC Final Event featuring The Beach Boys will take place on Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at the Colorado Convention Center. Stay tuned to the ANC website, www.schoolnutrition.org/anc, for the most up-to-date conference details. Registration is currently scheduled to open in late January.
ANC 2012
Yesterday, the School Nutrition Association (SNA) submitted comments on the indirect cost study as requested by the Federal Register notice (76 Federal Register 62341) published on October 7, 2011. SNA believes the results of the proposed study and the potential for additional regulatory proposals will go a long way toward identifying a fair and practical solution to this challenging financial problem. Direct costs are manageable and predictable and allow for responsible budgeting. However, indirect costs are not always controllable and predictable making it more difficult to budget properly.
SNA has also suggested the addition of three threshold questions to be added to the indirect cost study. These three questions are: (1) Who is the Respondent?, (2) What is the Time Frame for the Study?, and (3) Can SFAs Challenge or Appeal Indirect Cost Assessments?
The entire letter can be viewed here.
December 7, 2011—The United Fresh Foundation’s Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards Program, which recognizes the foodservice industry’s most innovative produce performers, is seeking nominations for 2012. United Fresh will honor winning chefs in each of six categories, including K-12 Foodservice.
The winners in each category will receive complimentary airfare, accommodations and registrations to United Fresh 2012, to be held May 1-3 in Dallas. The winners will be honored at an awards banquet and participate in the education program at the conference to share their views on produce trends in foodservice. In addition, Pro*Act, LLC, the sponsor of the awards program, will make a donation to a charitable organization of each winner’s choice.
Nominations must be submitted by January 16, 2012. Nomination materials and information are available at www.unitedfresh.org/programs/foodservice_award.
For more information about the awards program, contact Miriam Wolk, United Fresh senior director of membership, at mwolk@unitedfresh.org or (202) 303-3400, ext. 410.
United Fresh Foundation Produce Excellence in Foodservice Awards Program
December 6, 2011 – SNA’s 2011 Fall Membership Drive was very successful, welcoming 2,313 new members this fall, 150 more members than the 2010 Fall Membership Drive. The membership campaign ran from August 1 to October 31, 2011.
Every year, the top recruiting states in each region are awarded with a complimentary one-year membership to the Association. The states receiving this award are as follows:
These states will be recognized in July at the Annual National Conference (ANC) in Denver, Colorado.
For questions regarding the Fall Membership Drive, contact Ellen Wilson, Director of Membership and Affiliate Services, at (800) 877-8822, ext. 119, or ewilson@schoolnutrition.org.
This month on Tray Talk we are providing parents with MyPlate resources and healthy eating tips for the holiday season.
Many schools are also using MyPlate in nutrition education programs in the classroom, and they are finding ways to help parents promote nutritious choices at home.
The new Tray Talk video shows how Saint Paul Public Schools are promoting healthy eating choices and sharing healthy school meal recipes with parents to use at home.
Also, read the full story about the MyPlate resources and Saint Paul Public Schools amazing recipe sharing program at the Tray Talk Website - http://www.traytalk.org/homework-for-the-holidays-inspiring-healthy-habits/
December 2, 2011 – As a school nutrition director or manager working in the “trenches” day in and day out, you know all too well that the profession is at a critical crossroads, not only in terms of ongoing media scrutiny and looming new regulations, but also in terms of the ever-changing food tastes, preferences and needs of today’s savvy youngsters. How do you stay on top of it all and still manage to run a successful school meals program? The answer is simple. You attend SNA’s upcoming Child Nutrition Industry Conference (CNIC), January 15-17, 2012, where you’ll create your roadmap for navigating the most complex challenges on the school nutrition road today!
Of course, SNA isn’t the only one touting the important education and learning that will be gained by attending next month’s gathering in Orlando. In a video from Supermarket Guru Phil Lempert, the keynote speaker reminds us that “the food world around us is changing at lightning speed” and praised CNIC as “one of the most important school nutrition conferences of the year.”
At CNIC on Sunday, January 15, Lempert will present the session, “Kids as Consumers: How They Impact Your Business,” where he will present on the sweeping changes happening in the purchasing power and eating habits of kids today and how these changes impact your operation. Also, you will learn how to carry your program into the future as Lempert provides as insightful look at food trend predictions for 2012.
Lempert is the master of many trades—television & radio news reporter, newspaper columnist, author, consumerologist and food marketing expert—and is widely respected for his uncanny ability to spot food, marketing and consumer trends before they happen. You may recognize him from his regular appearances on NBC’s “The Today Show,” where he reports on consumer trends, food safety and money-saving tips, as well as showcases new products. He also makes monthly appearances on ABC’s “The View,” and has had numerous appearances on “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” “20/20,” CNN, CNBC, MSNBC and Discovery Health.
This session is just one of the many fascinating presentations that will be a part of CNIC 2012. To learn more about all the sessions and networking events that will make next month’s conference well worth your time out the school nutrition trenches, just visit www.schoolnutrition.org/cnic. And remember, if you haven’t yet registered for CNIC, today is the last day to take advantage of the Regular Rate registration deadline. After today, all registrations received will be charged at the Onsite Rate!
Related Links:CNIC 2012Register for CNICKeynote Speakers
Changes to Law Allow Schools to Donate Excess Cafeteria Food to Local Food Banks
Representative Frank Wolf (R-VA) has written a ‘Dear Colleague’ letter in support of the recent passage of the minibus and language regarding excess cafeteria food donations. The recently-enacted appropriations minibus included language amending the school lunch program to allow schools to donate excess cafeteria food to local food pantries. Rep. Wolf and Rep. Tom Petri (R-WI) have been supportive of this effort for many years and are hopeful that more food will be donated to local food banks from area school cafeterias. In his letter, Rep. Wolf also reinforces the fact that the donations are covered by the Good Samaritan Act and are protected from liability from liability.