Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America’s students are well-fed and poised for academic success.

From nutrition requirements and statistics to school nutrition success stories and national campaigns, this is everything you need to know about our nation’s school meal programs.

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Key Facts

School Nutrition Standards

To receive federal reimbursements, school meals are required to meet strict nutrition standards, offering a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low- or fat-free milk.

School Meal Statistics

Nearly 30 million students eat school lunch every day. Get more statistics regarding the nation’s school meals programs.

The People Behind School Meals

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School Nutrition Success Stories

Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America’s students.

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School Nutrition Professionals

From chefs to nutritionists and industry partners to state agencies, learn more about the people who collaborate to ensure school meal programs thrive.

Annual Observances

National School Lunch Week

School lunches are worth celebrating! Learn more about National School Lunch Week (NSLW), commemorated annually in October.

National School Breakfast Week

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), celebrated annually in March, honors the importance of a nutritious morning meal in fueling students for success.

School Lunch Hero Day

Recognize the impact of school nutrition professionals on School Lunch Hero Day (SLHD), occurring annually on the first Friday of May.

Latest News

Ideas & Inspiration, School Lunch Hero Day, SNA News

Get Ready to Celebrate Your Heroes!

March 18, 2024

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Advocacy & Policy, SNA News

Take Action: New Unpaid School Meal Debt Bill 

March 14, 2024

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Advocacy & Policy, SNA News, USDA Policy Update

President Biden Signs FY2024 Agriculture Appropriations Bill into Law

March 13, 2024

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School Nutrition Magazine

Food Focus

Savoring the Sweet Potential of Strawberries

March 8, 2024

Follow the evolution of strawberries, from ancient history to modern times, and discover sweet culinary classics and savory shake-ups. Plus, learn how to incorporate this favorite fruit into your school menus with both familiar and more unique recipes.


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Feature

A Fine Kettle of Fish

March 8, 2024

Discover how Sea to School initiatives help to get kids hooked on the taste and health benefits of fish and seafood, and learn how districts in regions across the country have incorporated more seafood into their school menus.


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Feature

What Do Robots Know About Cafeteria Food?

March 8, 2024

Whatever your role in school nutrition, you’ve probably heard that “AI is coming.” Now is the time to at least consider how AI could have a place in your school nutrition program—even if that just means having enough knowledge to decide that AI isn’t for you right now.


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