The Nutrition Services component includes access to a variety of nutritious and appealing meals that accommodate the health and nutrition needs of all students. School nutrition programs reflect the U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans and other criteria to achieve optimum nutrition. The school nutrition services offer students a learning laboratory for classroom nutrition and health education, and serve as a resource for linkages with nutrition-related community services.

Below are example strategies that support Nutrition Services as part of the Coordinated School Health Model:

• Promote collaboration with teachers and food service staff to reinforce nutrition education lessons taught in the classroom
• Hire a certified food service manager
• Offer opportunities for professional development for the food service manager and staff
• Provide nutritious breakfast/lunch programs that are accessible to all students
• Offer a variety of foods in school meals
• Purchase and prepare foods with reduced fat content
• Offer low-fat, appealing a la carte and vending items
• Promote healthy foods for classroom parties, snacks and fundraising
• Discourage the use of foods as a rewards
• Offer at least 10 minutes for students to eat breakfast and at least 20 minutes for students to eat lunch
• Ensure the cafeteria is clean, safe, and pleasant
• Limit availability of vending machines and offer healthy options in the vending machines at a discounted rate
• Train staff to respond to food emergencies such as food allergies or choking
• Schedule recess before lunch

Looking for Resources? Go to Nutrition Services Website Resources

Back to Eight Component Main Page