School lunches are often criticized, due in part to the increased awareness of the nutritional impacts on a child's long-term health. Lifelong nutritional habits generally start during childhood, so a parent's concern over the nutritional value of school lunches is valid. According to Medline Plus, a National Institutes of Health website, school lunches are designed to help a child reach one-third of his daily recommended dietary allowances. Various programs might not offer this amount every day, but the goal is to provide this amount of nutrients for children who eat school lunches over time. Keep in mind that you make a larger impact at home with the food choices you offer.
Features
To get meals to children in a short amount of time and with little prepping, a majority of school lunch foods are processed. The nutritional value of school lunches varies. For example, a school might serve grilled chicken one day, and breaded chicken nuggets with french fries the next. There is a misconception that there are no healthy choices available to children at lunchtime. Unfortunately, some children choose sugary juices over low-fat milk, and fries over fruit. By eliminating the unhealthy choices, children will likely eat healthier at school.
Concerns
According to the Mayo Clinic, a child's lunch should have an assortment of whole grains, calcium, protein and fruits and vegetables every day. As of 2011, there are no requirements for serving whole-grain foods in schools, a component that should make up at least 50 percent of your daily nutrition. If a school falls short by not offering foods from such sources, supplement with these items from home to ensure that your child receives proper nutrition and energy.
Alterations
USA Today reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture raised concerns with the government in 2011 over the nutritional value of school lunches. The last time the department made any nutritional recommendations for schools was in 1996. Such recommendations include decreasing the amount of sodium, calories and trans fats while increasing the amount of fruits, whole grains and green leafy vegetables in meals.
Prevention/Solution
Although some families rely on prepaid school lunches to feed their students, other families have the opportunity to choose between school lunches and those brought from home. Parents can help ensure that their children are receiving optimal nutrition by packing lunches from home. Medline Plus recommends doing this at least twice a week if your child's school doesn't provide the healthiest food choices. To help ensure that your child eats the lunches you pack, have him pick out nutritious foods that he likes.
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