There is much controversy about whether or not school food is actually healthy. Many groups are against the amount of processed foods that are used in schools because it is thought to be unhealthy. The groups are also trying to bring in a focus on local foods in to school cafeterias. The food provided for AISD usually comes from all over the state and country, depending on whether it is meat, produce, etc. Only about of 30% of foods that are served are frozen foods. “We are currently working with the Sustainable Food Center on a pilot project that hooks up our school cafeterias with local farmers.” says Ms. Spano. “ We currently source local produce in five of our middle schools and will expand the program as soon as all of the logistics are worked out” AISD wants their students to like the food that they get in their cafeteria. The district Chef even conducts student focus groups to get student feedback and try to incorporate their ideas and opinions when ever possible. But, in the end, all the rules and regulations handed down by government agencies must be followed. If students are interested in making changes to what can be offered for school lunches Ms. Spano says that “Most of what we do is dictated by either federal regulation or state policy. To effect change, you would need to lobby your state and federal representatives and senators.” It all comes back down to politics.
Age/Grade Group
Preschool
Grades K-6
Grades 7-12
Energy Allowances (Calories=cal.)
517 cal.
664 cal.
825 cal.
633 cal.
7 g
10 g
16 g
9 g
Calcium (milligrams=mg)
267 mg
286 mg
400 mg
267 mg
Iron (millilgrams=mg)
3.3 mg
3.5 mg
4.5 mg
3.3 mg
150 RE
224 RE
300 RE
200 RE
14 mg
15 mg
18 mg
15 mg
Protein (grams=g)
Vitamin A (Retinol Equivalents= RE Vitamin C (milligrams=mg) Total Fat Saturated Fat
Grades K-3(optional)
No more that 30 percent of total calories should come from fat Less than 10 percent of total calories should come from saturated fat. Spring 2010
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