New Idaho Nutrition Standards

The State of Idaho has issued new nutrition standards for school meals. The USDA is currently revising their meal patterns and nutrition standards but Idaho took a proactive stance and developed new standards with the help of a statewide panel.

The new lunch standards include:

• Calories served may not exceed 100-110% of the appropriate level.
• Elimination of all foods containing trans fats.
• Deep-fat frying shall not be used a method to prepare food.
• Limitation on pre-fried entrees and side items to no more than three times weekly.
• Whole grains must be served at least three times weekly.
• Serve a variety to include one fruit and one vegetable daily. Serve fresh fruits & vegetables when possible and canned fruits in natural juice, water or light syrup.
• Only offer fat-free or low fat milk.
• Legumes to be served once per week.
• Not offer grains with more than 14g of sugar.
• Limit sodium to 2mg per calorie.
• Offer meals with at least 1g of fiber per 100 calories.
• Limit cholesterol to 100mg.
• No added salt and sugar dispensers or packets will be made available.

As you can see from the above list, the Child Nutrition Department of the Idaho Department of Education has taken a serious step towards improving the nutritional value of school lunches. You can be sure your child is receiving a well-balanced nutritional lunch because the Genesee School District follows the guidelines above.

If you have any questions give Mrs. Hasfurther, Food Service Director, or Dave Neumann, Superintendent a call.