School Lunch Goes Organic…
The California Food Policy Advocates determined most school food LACKS nutritional quality—i.e. it SUCKS—and we’re all haunted by the one-eyed lunch lady scooping slop and Salisbury steak onto our compartmentalized tray.
So, to BUCK the trend, the Kansas City Academy in Kansas City, Missouri is participating in the Bistro Kids’ Farm 2 School program. It provides schools with wholesome, healthy, organic food. The Associated Press reports:
Kiersten Firquain, owner/operator of Bistro Kids, passionately believes that typical school lunch fare such as high-fat, nutrient-poor cheeseburgers, nachos and hot dogs is damaging the mental and physical health of the nation’s children.
Health and nutrition experts agree, saying poor dietary habits are a contributing factor in dramatic increases in childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes, asthma and high cholesterol.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the number of overweight children from ages 6-11 has more than doubled in the last 20 years and tripled in those aged 12-19.
Schools across the country are responding by adding more fruits, vegetables, salads and healthier alternatives to menus.
But few have gone as far as Firquain wants to go. She advocates providing lunches using foods free of additives, hormones, antibiotics and trans-fats. And she believes the ingredients should, as much as possible, come from local producers.
For Farm 2 School, Firquain uses several sources within a 200-mile radius of Kansas City, such as small family farms and organic bakeries. The rest she orders through Ball’s Food Stores, which promotes locally grown foods.
Now grown folks, you listen up too! A school lunch might not concern you, but EVERYONE worries about money—especially now!
That’s why the Public News Service explains how going organic can keep you healthy AND save you money.
