Tom Vilsack Secretary of U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) | Official Website
The U.S. Department of Agriculture, under the leadership of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, has unveiled new measures aimed at enhancing the nutrition standards of school meals across the country. These changes, set to be implemented between Fall 2025 and Fall 2027, will focus on reducing added sugars, providing flexibility in menu planning, and improving the overall health value of meals served in K-12 schools.
According to Secretary Vilsack, "Nutritious school meals are an essential part of the school environment, empowering our kids to achieve greater success inside and outside of the classroom." The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to partnering with schools, districts, states, and industry to strengthen school meals and support the well-being of children nationwide.
One of the key updates to the nutrition standards includes limiting added sugars in school meals, with full implementation by Fall 2027. Cindy Long, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service Administrator, highlighted that these changes aim to address concerns raised by parents and teachers regarding excessive amounts of added sugars in some foods, particularly in school breakfast items.
Moreover, the new standards will also introduce limits on added sugars in flavored milk served at breakfast and lunch by Fall 2025. Thirty-seven school milk processors have already committed to providing nutritious options that meet this requirement, ensuring that children continue to receive essential nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and potassium.
In addition to sugar regulations, schools will be required to slightly reduce sodium content in their meals by Fall 2027. This adjustment, supported by leading school nutrition and industry stakeholders, aims to promote healthier eating habits among students.
Furthermore, the updated standards will make it easier for schools to offer protein-rich breakfast options and support vegetarian diets and other food preferences. Schools will also have the option to prioritize locally sourced products, benefiting both the schools and the local economy.
Mary Beth Cochran, a member of MomsRising, expressed her support for the new measures, emphasizing the importance of nutritious school meals for families. She shared, "It gives me so much peace of mind to know that no matter what, the kids will eat two balanced meals five days a week at school."
The Department's initiative aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's national strategy to end hunger and reduce diet-related diseases by 2030. By working collaboratively with schools, districts, and industry partners, the Administration aims to build on the progress made in strengthening school meals and promoting child health.
As the nation looks ahead to the gradual implementation of these updated nutrition standards, the focus remains on providing children with healthy and balanced meals that support their well-being and academic success.
