Current Projects
NEW!
School Nutrition Standards Commission
The MHSLC was named a member of the Massachusetts School Meal Nutrition Standards Commission. This commission is charged with studying and recommending enhanced nutrition standards for K-12 public school meals. We look forward to working with stakeholders from across the state to shape a healthier future for Massachusetts' students.
Massachusetts has established itself as a pioneer by prioritizing access to school meals by approving permanent funding for universal free school meals for all K-12 public school students. The Commission is a critical component to ensure these meals contain key nutrients for growth and development, accommodate diverse dietary needs including food allergies, lactose intolerance, and promote vegetarian and vegan options.
Commission Priorities
Building on the successes of food-security initiatives like Universal Free School Meals, the priority now is nutrition-security addressing not only access to food available but just as importantly: the quality of those meals.
Enhancing Nutrition Standards
Reducing sugar content, increasing dietary fiber, and limiting saturated fats, cholesterol, and ultra-processed foods in school meals.
Accommodating Dietary Needs
Addressing religious, cultural, medical, and non-medical dietary restrictions, including food allergies and lactose intolerance.
Providing Diverse Menu Options
Offering clearly-labeled daily plant forward options.
Nutrition & Sourcing Transparency
Requiring food service providers to provide information to schools on the nutritional content of menu items and the location where the purchased produce is grown and processed.
