Guest Blogger: Amy Pojunas, Regional Account Manager

Growing up, one of my daily chores was packing lunch for school. The standard lunch was a sandwich, piece of fruit, chips, and fruit snacks. During 12 years in elementary, middle, and high school I purchased lunch less than 30 times; not by choice but because I simply forgot my lunch. Some friends ate cafeteria lunch every day because their family did not pack lunch  or because they were on the free or reduced price meal plan with school.

All the school children who eat cafeteria food  now are looked after by organizations and programs including the School Nutrition Association. The School Nutrition Association is one of the voices advocating for our children’s health through better nutrition. They help implement standards requiring schools to include: whole grains, fruits and vegetables in meals served at school.

Some may remember corn dogs and tater tots as their lunch choices. Now, children in Ohio enjoy meals like strawberry spinach salad. In New Jersey students eat BBQ turkey “Sloppy Joes.” The well-known cafeteria pizza is now made with whole grain crust, low-fat cheese, and low-sodium sauce. School programs in states  like Virginia focus on healthy food options through cooking programs. These classes teach children where food comes from and  provides ideas of how to prepare it in their own kitchens.

I support healthy school meals – do you? Post the below ‘Tray Talk’ logo on your blog or webpage to show your support!