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

Annual National Conference, Conferences & Events, SNA News

Get Ready for an Unforgettable ANC25!

March 20, 2025

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Advocacy & Policy, Press Release

Proposed School Meal Cuts Prompt Nationwide Advocacy

March 10, 2025

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National School Breakfast Week, School Nutrition Foundation

School Nutrition Manager from Hamblen County Schools Named 2025 Josephine Martin National Policy Fellow 

March 6, 2025

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School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

A Journey Through Cafeteria Classics

March 3, 2025

No matter how much school meals have evolved over the years, there are iconic cafeteria classics that have stood the test of time. Whether you were in school in the ‘70s or even just a few years ago, chances are you’ve looked at an actual lunch tray or a recent recipe photo and thought, “Yep, I remember that!”


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First Word

Taking the First Bite

March 3, 2025

Food is an adventure, and sometimes the best part isn’t whether we love or dislike a dish. It’s the experience of trying something new. Sometimes you’ll find a new favorite. Other times? Maybe not. But either way, you took a chance and tried something new, and that’s what really matters.


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President’s Perspective

Lessons From a Former Picky Eater

March 3, 2025

I know how important a staple like a peanut butter-and-jelly sandwich can be for a choosy child. That’s why it’s crucial we listen to kids when it comes to their meals—because, at the end of the day, if they won’t eat it, it doesn’t matter how nutritious it is.


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