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

SNA 2023-24 President Chris Derico on stage at ANC 2023
Press Release, SNA News

SNA Welcomes Chris Derico as 2023-2024 President 

July 11, 2023

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SNA News, USDA Policy Update

USDA Announces SY2023-24 Reimbursement Rates

July 8, 2023

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Awards, SNA News

SNA Celebrates Its 2022-23 Award Winners

July 7, 2023

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School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

What’s Trending on a Global Stage

November 4, 2025

One school nutrition director’s reflections from the 24th Global Child Nutrition Forum held in Osaka, Japan.


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Feature

Tuning In to Gen Z & Gen Alpha

November 4, 2025

Social media defines all kinds of trends—including those related to food. Here’s how to stay on top of today’s biggest food and flavor trends, bring the next viral recipe into the cafeteria and appeal to what’s trending with your Gen Z and Gen Alpha students.


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Feature

The Future is Flavor Forward

November 4, 2025

We asked expert trend-watchers to identify the top flavor opportunities that are currently connecting with the younger members of Gen Z and the older kids in Gen Alpha and a few to keep an eye on for the future.


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