The $6.4 billion government-funded school lunch program is up for reauthorization by Congress at the beginning of 2003, and questions are being raised as to the worthiness of current school lunch programs. Some school districts have brought in organic food or switched to oven-baked fries, and 12 states have introduced bills to prohibit the sale of junk food in schools, however, many school cafeterias serve fast-food meals from local franchises such as Burger King and Papa John’s as well as offer junk food and soda from vending machines.

While lawmakers attempt to determine how to make school lunches safer, more wholesome and desirable to students, the number of overweight teens has almost tripled since the 1970s. Additionally, by the end of 2002 schools will be allowed to purchase meat that has been irradiated, or treated with low-level radiation as a way to kill bacteria. However, adversaries say that this practice kills nutrients along with the bacteria.

The National School Lunch Program was put in place as a way to ensure that all students, even the poor, would be fed while in school. Each day, schools serve 27 million federally subsidized meals, however, the amount they receive for each free meal, usually $2.14, is not enough to cover the costs. The program, which requires schools to meet calorie and nutrition standards, is monitored by the USDA.

Often as a way to supplement funding, schools sell brand name, a la carte items, which they may mark up 50 to 100 percent. Nationwide, 20 percent of schools sell these types of items, and close to all high schools have vending machines. The extra funds help schools to finance the government meals as well as other things, such as field trips, but may compromise students’ health. As shown by one study, students consume 50 percent less vegetables, fruit and juice in schools where snack foods are available. Additionally in some cases, states that have attempted to ban fast-food from school cafeterias have been met by opposition from parents and Parent Teacher Organizations.

Another question that has been raised on the issue is, assuming healthy food is available, how do you get students to eat it? The solution may be easier than initially thought. In one study, when the prices of fruits and vegetables were cut in several high school cafeterias, students’ purchases of vegetables doubled, and that of fruits increased by four times. Other school districts are extending lunch periods, adding real silverware, and offering all-you-can-eat salad bars as a way to give students a more positive lunch experience.

Time December 2, 2002