The document discusses improving the quality of school and out-of-school nutrition programs. It notes that obesity rates are higher among low-income and minority children. While school meals can help dietary intake, current meals often exceed fat and sodium limits and provide too few whole grains and vegetables. The IOM recommends strengthening nutrition standards for school meals to reduce obesity and improve health. Expanding access to subsidized federal nutrition programs may be the most effective way to combat child obesity.

1. Improving the Quality of School and Out-of-School Time Nutrition Programs Heather Hartline-Grafton, DrPH, RD Senior Nutrition Policy Analyst Anti-Hunger Policy Conference Washington, DC | March 8, 2010

3. U.S. Prevalence of Overweight & Obesity 31.3 31.6 28.8

9. Role of the Federal Nutrition Programs in Obesity Prevention Reduce Overweight & Obesity Federal Nutrition Programs Improve Dietary Intake Reduce Food Insecurity

11. “ We also find that subsidized meals at school or day care are beneficial for children’s weight status, and we argue that expanding access to subsidized meals may be the most effective tool to use in combating obesity in poor children .” Source: Kimbro & Rigby, 2010

12. Increase participation in the federal nutrition programs

16. Key Recommended Changes for School Lunch Gradually but markedly decrease sodium to the specified level by 2020 None (decreased level recommended) Sodium Must be within minimum and maximum level Must meet minimum level Calories Fat-free (plain or flavored) and plain low-fat milk only Whole, reduced-fat, low-fat, fat-free milks (plain or flavored) Milk At least half must be whole grain rich No requirement for whole grains Grains/ Breads Two servings required daily, amount increased. Must include dark green, bright orange, legumes, starchy, and other vegetables each week Vegetables Required daily amount increased Considered together as a fruit and vegetable group. No specifications for the type of vegetable Fruits Recommendations Current Requirements Type of Specification

22. Includes school meal, summer , and afterschool programs