Good Nutrition Is a Main Ingredient in Back-to-School Success

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As kids head back to school, families have a great opportunity to check out the progress made in their districts’ meal programs and to get involved to keep the momentum going.

In recent years, school food has become healthier thanks to updated nutrition standards from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and that’s something families can feel good about. Students learn valuable habits and lifelong lessons about healthy foods when they are offered meals and snacks rich in whole-grains, fruits, and vegetables.

This year the USDA released two final rules that set strong nutrition guidelines for snacks sold to students, whether by school meal programs or other departments, and will prevent the marketing on school grounds of foods and drinks that do not meet those standards. Now, no matter where or when students are on campus, they will have access to nutritious foods and beverages and to consistent nutrition education that will help set them up for a lifetime of success.

As kids head back to school, families have a great opportunity to check out the progress made in their districts’ meal programs and to get involved to keep the momentum going. Check out these resources to learn more, and consider joining your child for lunch to kick off a great new year.