#United States #San Francisco #school nutrition #Eat Real #K-12 Certification

Eat Real Expands Its Reach in School Nutrition

Eat Real, a national nonprofit organization focused on transforming school food, proudly announces its partnership with school districts in 18 states for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year. This initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing the nutritional quality of meals served in schools, aiming to support approximately 800,000 students. The organization is well on its way to achieving its ambitious goal of reaching 1 million students by the end of the school year.

A National Mission for Healthier School Meals

The introduction of the K-12 certification program by Eat Real is designed to help public school districts across the country procure and serve meals that are not only delicious and nutritious but also environmentally sustainable. As part of this program, school districts will be evaluated based on 10 evidence-based standards that assess 34 critical performance indicators related to their menu plans and procurement practices.

Some of the states involved in this expansion include Arizona, Florida, Idaho, Ohio, Oklahoma, Virginia, West Virginia, and Michigan. Nora LaTorre, CEO of Eat Real, emphasizes the dedication and effort of foodservice directors nationwide who are working tirelessly to improve meal quality. "These heroes are transforming the way our students learn, grow, and thrive," she stated, expressing her excitement about partnering with them to help children reach their full potential.

The New Food Standards

The new cohort of states will benefit from updated food nutrition standards that reflect cutting-edge research in metabolic health and childhood nutrition. The revised standards were the result of an extensive year-long review process, incorporating insights from a diverse array of contributors, including doctors, dietitians, educators, and parents, ensuring that the new framework is rooted in the latest science relating to child health.

Dr. Robert Lustig, Co-Founder and Chief Science Officer at Eat Real, commented on the significant importance of these updates. "These new standards are grounded in rigorous science and reflect what the medical community has long advocated: reducing added sugar and prioritizing real foods rich in fiber and micronutrients is essential for children's health and development."

The inclusive approach taken in forming these standards included over 60 public comments, fostering a collaborative spirit amongst experts across the K-12 food ecosystem. This cooperation ensures that the set goals are realistic, practical, and beneficial for student well-being, while also promoting a transformation in the food systems surrounding schools.

Voices from the Community

Educators like Andy Pense from Fayette County Schools in West Virginia share the enthusiasm for the Eat Real Certification program, stating that he aims to demonstrate the compatibility of tasty and healthy food. He values the objective analyses and road maps provided through the program, expressing gratitude for the support in enhancing the quality of school meals.

Eat Real's Vision and Advocacy

Founded with a mission to ensure that all children have access to healthy and delicious meals, Eat Real operates as the only national, doctor-led, foodservice-approved nonprofit focused on food quality in educational settings. The organization believes that public school cafeterias can play a pivotal role in addressing the health crises facing American children today. Through its award-winning K-12 certification program, Eat Real empowers foodservice leaders with the tools needed to create menus that are appealing to students while also sustaining the planet.

The initiative goes beyond meals, advocating for broader policies and standards that ensure every child has access to nourishing food. As Eat Real expands its programs across various states, the organization is poised to make a significant impact on the future health and well-being of American children, fostering healthier communities and a healthier planet for generations to come.

Eat Real invites all stakeholders—teachers, parents, foodservice professionals, and policymakers—to unite in this endeavor. The cafeteria can indeed change the future, and together we can ensure that all kids, communities, and our planet thrive in the process.