The Journal of Child Nutrition & Management
Volume 50, Issue 1, Spring 2026
Read the summaries below and download the full Spring 20256 issue of JCN&M to discover new research on topics like school breakfast trends; training needs for scratch cooking, local food procurement and student-inspired meals; meat/meat alternates on menus; food safety and more.
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Table of Contents
May 11, 2026
The Spring 2026 issue of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management features research and insights on nutrition standards, education, administration, operations, food production, food safety, and marketing. Together, these articles provide evidence‑based practices and innovative strategies to strengthen child nutrition programs.
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Editor’s Note
May 11, 2026
Welcome to the Spring 2026 Issue of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management (JCNM)!
Keith Rushing, PhD, RD - Editor, Journal of Child Nutrition & Management, School Nutrition Association
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Job Demands-Resources Model Applied to School Nutrition Employee Experiences with the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
May 11, 2026
A qualitative study exploring how school nutrition staff experienced stress, burnout, and motivation during the pandemic, using a model that explains how job demands and available support affect well-being.
Authors: Emily Patten, PhD, RDN, CD; J. Mitchell Vaterlaus, PhD; Lori Spruance, PhD; Mckenna Jones, MS, RDN; Erica Card, MS, RDN, CD; Dayle Hayes, MS, RDN; Jeanne Reilly, NDTR, SNS; Brennan Rotar, BS
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May 11, 2026
Is There Any Association Between U.S. Children Produce Intake and School Grade Groups?
A study examining how participation in fresh produce programs and school meal initiatives may influence student behaviors and outcomes, including dietary habits and engagement in school nutrition efforts.
Authors: Angela Walla, PhD., Catherine Strobehn, PhD., David Lawver, PhD., M. Todd Brashears, Ed.D., Taylor
Klatt, MS., and Jivan Gaire
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Produce Safety University Impacts Child Nutrition Specialist Work
May 11, 2026
A research study examining how a national training program helped school nutrition professionals improve their knowledge, confidence, and daily practices related to fresh produce safety, leading to better food handling and reduced risk in school meal programs.
Authors: Angela Walla, PhD; Catherine Strobehn, PhD; David Lawver, PhD; M. Todd Brashears, Ed.D.; Taylor Klatt, MS; Jivan Gaire
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Challenges, Concerns, and Support Needs to Implement the Added Sugar Regulation: Perspectives of Oklahoma Child Nutrition Directors
May 11, 2026
A study exploring how school nutrition leaders are preparing to meet new limits on added sugar in school meals, including challenges with cost, staffing, product availability, and student acceptance.
Authors: Taylor Peabody, MPH, RD; Cassidy Ring, MS, CHES; Deana Hildebrand, PhD, RD
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Peer Revieweres for 2026
May 11, 2026
as a peer reviewer for the Spring 2026 Issue.