Plant-Based Lunch Option

Beginning August 1, 2023 under HB4089 (Plant-based school lunch option), public school districts participating in the National School Lunch Program will be required to provide a plant-based school lunch option to students who submit a prior request. Plant-based options offered must meet applicable NSLP meal pattern and nutrition requirements. SFAs (school districts) may meet this requirement by providing these options on a case-by-case basis. Common plant-based alternatives that may credit toward the meat/meat alternate component in the NSLP include, but are not limited to: nuts/seeds, nut/seed butters, beans/peas (legumes), and tofu and soy-based products. When incorporating plant-based options into an NSLP meal, SFAs (school districts) should refer to Child Nutrition (CN) labels or Product Formulation Statements (PFS) for information on contributions to the meal pattern.

In order for a parent/guardian to request a plant-based option for a student, the Modified Meal Request form must be submitted in advance (at least five school days) of the menu modification date requested. The form can be emailed to Marla Miller at millerm@sherrard.us or returned to the student's school to the attention of Marla Miller.