Thursday, April 2, 2015

Healthier School Lunches


School lunches have had a bad reputation for years.  We all remember TV shows where we see the lunch ladies serving a mysterious casserole.  Well thanks to the National School Lunch Program children are getting healthier meals. 

The lunches must contain 1/3 of the child's daily value of calories, protein, Vitamin A, C, calcium, and iron.  It must contain whole grains, protein,  milk, fruits, and vegetables while limiting the amount of added sugar, fat, and sodium.  It has been a challenge to meet the new requirements, but many people believe that the changes are beneficial.  It is a great way of teaching children what a balance meal looks like and assuring the children are getting proper nutrients. 

During my Dietetic Internship I did my Food Service Rotation at Carrollton- Farmer's Branch ISD.  Here are a few pictures of some of the healthy foods available for the students through the National School Lunch Program.

Side of broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots.
 Vegetable Juice 

Side Salad

Naked Fruit Juices


Fruit




Example lunch tray- Beef Fingers breaded with whole wheat flour,  orange, salad, and low fat milk 




Example lunch tray-   Pizza made with whole wheat white flour and low fat cheese,  broccoli, pear,  and fat free chocolate milk.

No comments:

Post a Comment