Senate Agriculture chairman Pat Roberts says that, as part of reauthorizing school lunch and other child nutrition programs, he plans to “have a big-picture discussion on how to retain the great advancements that some schools have made, and to allow other districts to meet the challenges.” In a statement, the Kansas Republican pointed to the vast difference in size and finances of U.S. school districts, and said, “It is clear that a one-siz-fits-all approach will not work.” Child nutrition programs are expected to cost $21 billion this year. School lunch is the largest program, providing a hot meal to 30.2 million students each day.
School children are eating healthier meals and discarding less of their meals since school-lunch reforms took effect, says USDA, citing a study by the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity. “This new study adds to a growing body of scientific research that shows these standards are working,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. Critics contend the new menus are unpopular with students and unduly costly for schools to serve. The School Nutrition Association is seeking a higher reimbursement for meals, and the removal of a requirement to put a serving of fruit or vegetables on each tray.