One important consideration under these guidelines is calories.  The USDA requires us to serve meals that offer a minimum number of calories.  These requirements vary by grade level.  The minimum calories required by the USDA for school lunch is 664 for grades K-6 and 825 for grades 7-12.  The USDA also requires there be less than 30 percent calories from fat, and less than 10 percent calories from saturated fat over a week's time.

We typically offer more than the minimum number of calories required by the USDA, because we offer significantly more servings of fruits and vegetables than the 4.25 cups/week that are required.  In November, for example, we offered 8 cups/week, on average.  Also, when French bread or dinner rolls are on the menu, students can take up to two servings.  Of course, students have very different caloric needs, depending on their age and size and how active they are.

Disclaimer:  Nutrient values are useful guides but must be considered estimates.  The nutrient content of a food can vary due to natural factors like soil quality and climate as well as processing and preparation variations.  Manufacturers may change their formulation without our knowledge.  And, the portion sizes may vary slightly which will affect the nutrient content.  Please consider this information carefully when making selections.  To better understand how to read and interpret a nutrition label, go to www.cfsan.fda.gov