How Food Manufacturers Can Help Schools Make School Food Programs Better
- Redox Development
- Jul 1, 2023
- 2 min read
Calling breakfast the most important meal of the day is especially true for children. Having a meal first thing in the morning prepares our children to succeed. A meal before school provides students with crucial energy to jump-start their day, support optimum brain function, and contribute to a positive mindset for learning.
Unfortunately, not all children are able to get the nutrition they need at home before school. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, millions of American children live in households that suffer from a lack of consistent access to nutritious and quality meals. As a result, the United States federal government supports school food programs for both lunch and breakfast.
Food manufacturers can play a significant role in school food programs by partnering with schools and contributing to the provision of nutritious meals. Food manufacturers can support school food programs in the following ways:
Nutritional Expertise: Due to their expertise in food science and nutrition, manufacturers are ideally suited to help schools develop age-specific menus based on nutritional guidelines. By providing guidance on ingredient selection, portion sizes, and meal planning, food manufacturers can ensure meals are balanced, nutritious, and appealing to students.
Innovation: Food manufacturers have the capacity to develop and produce products that cater to the dietary requirements and preferences of students. Food innovation can create healthier versions of popular foods to improve the overall nutritional quality of school food programs.
Appealing Meals: As food experts, manufacturers can ensure the food being provided to schools is exciting and appealing while still satisfying the nutritional needs of students based on age, culture and lifestyle needs.
Quality: Food manufacturers adhere to strict food safety and quality standards. Their involvement in school food programs can enhance the safety and quality of the meals served to students. Manufacturers can assist schools in establishing food safety protocols, quality controls, and ensuring school meals meet required safety standards.
Sustainability: At local levels, some food manufacturers may be able to coordinate with local farmers and suppliers to source fresh and locally produced foods. In addition to providing students with excellent food, students would also be provided with an education on the importance of food sustainability and supporting local economies.
Supply Chain: Working directly with school districts, and/or boards could help ensure a consistent and reliable flow of nutritious ingredients in food products to schools.
Research & Development: Some food manufacturers may have the capacity to collaborate with academic institutions and public health organizations to evaluate the impact of school food programs on student health, academic performance, and long-term well-being.
The extensive expertise food manufacturers have in food science, ingredient benefits, and nutrition can contribute to the overall value and quality of school food programs. By collaborating with schools and actively engaging in community initiatives, food manufacturers can positively impact the health and academic success of students.
