Rule For New School Meal Requirements Announced

K-through-12 schools serve breakfasts and lunches to nearly 30 million children every school day. The standards for those meals will include a limitation of added sugars beginning with the fall of 2025 with full implementation by fall of 2027, a continuation of flavored milk, and a slight sodium reduction in meals. It will also be easier for schools to serve breakfast foods such as yogurt, tofu, eggs, nuts, and seeds.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says the rule includes a “Buy American” standard.

By law, USDA is required to set standards for the foods and beverages served through the school meal programs that align with the goals of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Each school develops meals that fit within the standards.