Parents need to know where their students’ lunch money is going and how your child can get the most out of your lunch dollars. Whether you pay full price, reduced, or receive free lunch this will tell you how to get the most out of your lunch!
When it comes to the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) there are specific regulations that the District must follow. In order to be a complete meal in the Program, your child’s school lunch must contain a minimum of three components. They are more than welcome to take advantage of all five components if desired. Out of the minimum three components they must take, one of the components must be ½ cup of fruits, juice or a vegetable.
For example:
All four of these lunch trays in the top example are complete lunches. They contain at least three components and at least ½ cup of fruit, juice or vegetable. Students can maximize their lunch by taking all five components (Grain, Protein, Fruits, Vegetables and Dairy). Below, the four lunch trays are NOT complete lunches. They do not have at least three components or they do not have at least ½ cup of fruit, juice or vegetable.