Step behind the serving line to catch a glimpse of modern-day school meals, and learn about the people who help ensure that America鈥檚 students are well-fed and poised for academic success.

From nutrition requirements and statistics to school nutrition success stories and national campaigns, this is everything you need to know about our nation鈥檚 school meal programs.

52255248067_51c42bda2d_k

Key Facts

School Nutrition Standards

To receive federal reimbursements, school meals are required to meet strict nutrition standards, offering a balance of lean protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and low- or fat-free milk.

School Meal Statistics

Nearly 30 million students eat school lunch every day. Get more statistics regarding the nation鈥檚 school meals programs.

The People Behind School Meals

kids-at-school

School Nutrition Success Stories

Learn how school nutrition professionals and meal programs have made a difference in the lives of America鈥檚 students.

52256238068_e6a4cdf90a_o

School Nutrition Professionals

From chefs to nutritionists and industry partners to state agencies, learn more about the people who collaborate to ensure school meal programs thrive.

Annual Observances

National School Lunch Week

School lunches are worth celebrating! Learn more about National School Lunch Week (NSLW), commemorated annually in October.

National School Breakfast Week

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW), celebrated annually in March, honors the importance of a nutritious morning meal in fueling students for success.

School Lunch Hero Day

Recognize the impact of school nutrition professionals on School Lunch Hero Day (SLHD), occurring annually on the first Friday of May.

Latest News

Conferences & Events, School Nutrition Industry Conference, SNA News

Maximize Your SNIC25 Experience with Pre-Conference Workshops & Add-Ons

October 11, 2024

Read More
Conferences & Events, National School Lunch Week, SNA News

New NSLW24 Communication Calendar: The Perfect Addition to Your Celebrations

October 11, 2024

Read More

School Nutrition Magazine

Feature

Tsunami Warning

August 23, 2021

Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the 鈥渘ormal鈥 waters of a new school year, another…


Read More
Feature

Introducing SNA鈥檚 2021-24 Strategic Plan

August 1, 2021

SNA didn鈥檛 get to its 75th anniversary milestone by happenstance. That achievement was built on the foundation of decades of…


Read More
Feature

One in a Melon

August 1, 2021

No matter where you live in the United States, there鈥檚 a good chance that it鈥檚 watermelon season right now. From…


Read More