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 News, SNA Publications

SN Magazine: May/June – Every Cafeteria Has a Story

May 7, 2025

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Awards, Press Release, School Lunch Hero Day, SNA News

SNA Recognizes Recipients of National Employee, Manager and Director Awards  

May 2, 2025

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School Lunch Hero Day, SNA News, SNA Publications

SN Plus: Celebrating Our School Lunch Heroes

April 30, 2025

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School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

2023 Secret Shopper Showcase

November 1, 2023

Experience ANC 2023’s Exhibit Hall from home with one dozen delightful discoveries and products that caught the eye of conference attendees.


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First Word

Looking to SN Readers to Cook up a Bright Future

November 1, 2023

The past few years have been chaotic for everyone, and the challenges facing school foodservice and SNA are no small things to contemplate either, but looking to SNA’s hardworking, passionate members is an optimistic reminder of a bright future, for school nutrition and beyond.


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President’s Perspective

Lean on the Expertise of Industry Partners

November 1, 2023

The industry representatives who serve the K-12 foodservice segment are among the most talented and generous partners anyone could ask for, and if you’re not actively working with them, you are making your job much, much harder than it needs to be.


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