Free school meal programs: What to know – CHOC

By Christina Wright-Yee, MPH, RD, CSP, CHOC dietitian, and Shannon Illingworth, MDA, RDN, Capistrano Unified School District nutrition specialist

Who is eligible for free breakfast and lunch at school?

In California, all students have access to free breakfast and lunch on all school days. During school breaks, families can apply to receive free meals and snacks as well. To find a program near you, use the CA Meals for Kids mobile application. This can help you find nearby California Afterschool and Summer Meal Programs Sites right on your iOS, Android, or Microsoft devices.

Are free school breakfasts and lunches healthy?

Yes! School breakfast and lunch must meet federal nutritional standards for portion sizes and foods served under The Healthy Hunger Free Kids Act. School breakfast and lunch must meet age- appropriate calorie and sodium ranges per grade level while maintaining saturated fat levels less than 10% of total calories and no trans fats. Learn more about reading nutrition facts labels here.

School nutrition programs serve healthier versions of kid friendly foods. Menus vary by school district, but entrees might include:

• pizza made with whole grain-rich crust, low-fat cheese and toppings, and lower sodium than traditional pizza;
• hamburgers made with whole grain rich buns and beef patties are low in salt and fat; or
• burritos made with whole grain-rich tortillas and low-fat/low sodium fillings.

School breakfast must include whole grain rich grains, fruit and milk. While not required, many districts may include protein at breakfast too.

School lunch must include whole grain rich grains, protein, fruit, a variety of different colored vegetables, and milk. For more information, go to www.MyPlate.gov.

How are free school breakfasts and lunches served?

Most school districts follow the “offer vs. serve” model. This allows schools to offer a variety of food items and empower students to make their own food choices.

Students are required to take:

• at least one serving of fruit with breakfast and
• at least one serving of fruit or vegetable at lunch.

Unfortunately, while students may take fruits and vegetables, they don’t always eat them. Parents, guardians and school staff can remind children that fruits and vegetables support healthy bodies.

Many school districts are working towards implementing more freshly prepared recipes and serving locally grown fruits and vegetables.

How can students with food allergies or special dietary accommodations get support at school?

Students with food allergies or requiring special dietary accommodations recommended by their medical team may benefit from submitting a Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations to the Food and Nutrition Services Department to their school district.

Families can get help from their pediatrician or dietitian about completing these forms.