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

Conferences & Events, School Nutrition Industry Conference, SNA Conferences

Early Bird Deadline for SNIC25 Ends December 6!

December 4, 2024

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School Nutrition Foundation, SNA Conferences, SNA News

SNF Announces SNIC25 Scholarship Recipients 

December 2, 2024

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School Nutrition Magazine

What’s Cooking

Tasty Travels Ahead

March 3, 2023

Thinking about a foodie-centric vacation this year? Users of TripAdvisor have identified the best food destinations in the U.S. and around…


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What’s Cooking

USDA Releases Proposed Long-Term Nutrition Standards

March 3, 2023

In early February, USDA announced a proposed rule establishing new, phased-in limits on added sugars and additional sodium reductions in…


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Bonus Web Content

Chef Ann Foundation Launches Healthy School Food Pathway Fellowship Program

February 21, 2023

The Chef Ann Foundation has launched a new fellowship program aimed at promoting scratch-cooking in schools across the country. Although…


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