The United States Department of Agriculture currently regulates foods sold in most schools. However, USDA’s nutrition standards for foods sold outside of school meals are outdated and allow for the sale of many low-nutrition foods. Nutrition science has evolved since USDA implemented its nutrition standards in the 1970s. The standards no longer make sense from the standpoint of science, current dietary patterns, or health. For example, candy bars are allowed under current regulations, but seltzer water is not.
For more information visit www.schoolfoods.org.