Welcome to Season 4, Episode 4
Many parents wonder: Is packing lunch at home really the better choice? In this episode of “School Food for Thought: The Truth Behind School Meals,” we take a closer look at how school-provided meals stack up against what’s brought from home.
We explore the nutritional benefits, variety and convenience of school meals—highlighting how they’re carefully planned, balanced and often more affordable than packed lunches. Beyond nutrition, the conversation touches on the social and cultural value of sharing a meal with peers and the important role school nutrition staff play in introducing kids to new foods and flavors.
By the end, listeners will gain a clearer picture of how school meals can support busy families, reduce guilt around “what to pack” and give children a lunchtime experience that’s healthy, inclusive and fun.
Meet Our Guests
Alexandra Turnbull, RDN, LD – Expert with Influence, Media Dietitian, The Family Nutritionist, LLC
Alex Turnbull is a pediatric dietitian, picky eating expert, and founder of The Family Nutritionist. A former school food service dietitian and award-winning leader in child nutrition, Alex has been recognized for her work in improving school breakfast and lunch programs and helping kids explore new foods. As a trusted nutrition communicator, she has appeared on national TV to break down food and nutrition topics in a relatable way for parents. At the heart of her work, Alex blends evidence-based advice with real-life mom wisdom, helping families feed their kids with more confidence and less guilt.
Nicole Melia, MS, RDN, LDN | Director of Food Services, Norristown Area School District
Nicole Melia is the Food Service Director of the Norristown Area School District in Norristown, Pennsylvania. She has been working in school nutrition since 2009, and is responsible for the overall operation of the School Food Service Department with approximately 7700 students in twelve schools grades K-12. She has been active in SNAPA and on the SNAPA Board of Directors since 2013. She has served as the State President of the School Nutrition Association of PA, Conference Chair and is the current Public Policy and Legislative Chair.
Michael Gasper,SNS, Director of Nutrition Services, School District of Holmen, WI
Michael Gasper has been the Director of Nutrition Services for the School District of Holmen for 18 years. The district has 3800 students and also feeds a private school, a Daycare, and Senior Dining for La Crosse County. The District is known for their Farm to School offerings and scratch cooking initiatives. He is a 2 time past president of SNA-Wi, a past member of SNA’s PPL committee and most recently finished a 3 year term on SNA’s Board of Directors. He was recently named the Dr. Katie Wilson Lifetime Achievement Award winner for his contributions to school Nutrition.
