Food & Nutrition

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Universal Meal Program

Launched as part of the federal government’s Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act, districts that qualify under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) are able to offer free meals to all students in the District through the Universal Meal Program. Universal meal programs are gaining popularity across the country; advocates say the program reduces bullying, removes the social stigma attached to the free  and reduced lunch program, and increases the health and well-being of students. Click here for more information about U City's 2016 launch of Universal Meal Program for District students. 

The School District of University City participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) that is governed by federal and state guidelines set by the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). The school district's goal, in cooperation with Chartwells School Dining Services, is to promote good health practices and provide a foundation for healthy lifestyle habits through nutritious, attractive and tasty meals.  

The School District of University City school cafeterias follow new federal nutrition requirements for school meals, ensuring that meals are healthy and well-balanced and provide students all the nutrition they need to succeed at school. School meals offer students milk, fruits and vegetables, proteins and grains, and they must meet strict limits on saturated fat and portion size.

School lunches meet additional standards that require:

• Age-appropriate portions and nutrients
• Increased serving in fruits and vegetables (students must now take 1/2 cup of fruit or vegetable).
• Increased variety of legumes (beans) and nutrient-dense vegetables, including dark green, orange and starchy vegetables. 
• More whole grains and proteins
• Lower sodium and reduced fats

The School District of University is always working to offer students healthier and tastier choices. Well-nourished students who are trained to make good food choices perform better in school.  We look forward to welcoming and servicing your child(ren) in the school cafeteria.