Category: School policy

According to a 2012 report by The Pew Charitable Trusts, states with strong laws restricting the sale of unhealthy snack foods in schools saw students gain less weight over a three-year period. The seemingly strict ban on selling snacks in school is not a random rule but a result of federal regulations and local wellness policies designed to protect student health and support nutrition education.

Across the United States, a significant portion of school lunch periods fall short of the recommended 20 minutes of seated time, leading to rushed meals for many students. This seemingly small scheduling issue triggers a cascade of negative effects that undermine a student's well-being and academic potential.

Research has linked good nutrition and access to a variety of fresh foods to improved academic outcomes, concentration, and better mental performance in children. This raises the important debate of whether **should students have snacks in school?** and how to manage the practice effectively. This article delves into the various facets of this issue, from academic benefits to health and logistical concerns.

According to the USDA, school lunches are the richest source of dairy in many children's diets, leading many to ask, "Why do schools serve milk instead of water?" The decision is rooted in a blend of nutritional guidelines, government subsidies, and historical public health initiatives.

Research from the USDA found that flavored milk was a leading source of added sugars in school meals, contributing significantly to students' overall sugar intake. This critical finding was a primary catalyst for schools to reassess their menus and start moving away from options like strawberry milk.