NASHVILLE, Tenn. -
This school year new nutrition guidelines aren't just a suggestion they are a requirement.
"The USDA has mandated this year that every school serve more fruits and vegetables to the students," said Braina Corke, Metro School's Assistant Director of Nutrition Services.
"On the school level, we have had to train our managers and our employees on what to look for on a student's tray as they come through the cafeteria line," Corke explained.
Last year, it was the student's choice whether or not they chose a fruit or vegetable for lunch but this year, staff will make sure the students have at least one serving of fruit or vegetable in order for it to be considered a complete meal.
"We are hoping to fight off childhood obesity and to help students at an earlier age begin to make healthy choices in the foods that they chose and eat," Corke continued.
MNPS cafeterias have already been providing healthier menu items for students. For example, instead of regular French fries the school serves sweet potato fries. Breads and buns served to the children are also whole wheat.
"It is our mission and desire at school nutrition with MNPS that every student at every school receives a healthy meal every single day," said Corke.
The USDA will change school breakfast requirements next year.
