NEWS
New Federal Mandates Bring Healthy Changes to School Meals
You may have noticed meals in our cafeterias look a little different this year. School cafeterias across the country are now required to meet new federal nutrition standards that aim to promote a healthy lifestyle and address the rising rate of childhood obesity and increased health complications in our population. The new guidelines set strict regulations for portion size yet offer a wide variety of milk, fruits, vegetables, proteins and grains. Examples of these new federal regulations include:
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Specific portion sizes individualized for each grade range (K-5, 6-8, 9-12)
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Only fat free or low fat milk being offered (flavored milk will only be offered as fat free)
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Larger servings and more variety of fruits and vegetables
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More whole grain products such as breads, pasta, and cereals
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Specific calorie ranges, limited saturated fats and only naturally occurring trans fats
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Students must select a minimum of a ½ cup of fruit or vegetable on their tray
Chatham CSD’s food service staff have worked within these new guidelines to create healthier, tastier, and convenient meals for students. If you would like more information regarding the new meal pattern requirements, please contact Barbara Murray, Food Service Supervisor at 392-1536.For additional information, please visit the Child Nutrition website at: www.nysed.gov. Another good online resource for parents can be found at www.choosemyplate.gov.