Fresh Bites Fall Edition 2021

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Back to School, Back to School Meals! Free Meals Continue for All Students through June 2022

Celebrating World School Milk Day and

BY GREG SZKLANY AMERICAN DAIRY ASSOCIATION NORTH EAST Milk’s Role in Fueling Students & Athletes

BY GREG SZKLANY AMERICAN DAIRY ASSOCIATION NORTH EAST

Every year in September, schools across theglobeunite tocelebrate Wo ld School Milk Day , which is taking place on September 29th this year. World School Milk Day is a day to highlight the importance of milk and to teach students the benefits of drinking milk – at school and at home – as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Did you know milk also fuels students for success? Students who fuel up with a nutritious school breakfast –which includes

This year’s Back-to-School season is an exciting time for students, especially as they return to in- person learning with their friends and teachers after many months spent distanced and remote. For millions of students nationwide, it also means a return to healthy and nutritious meals daily following summer break when food insecurity generally rises. We are well aware that it’s imperative for students haveaccess tohealthyschoolmeals -whichincludes milk, vegetables, fruit, and grains - as oftentimes this is the only source of good nutrtition they may receive. Studies show students who eat school breakfast or lunch have improved attendance, behavior, and standardized test scores.

In order to provide as many meals to as many students as possible, school nutrition professionals are continuing many changes implemented during the pandemic. According to a recent survey of school nutrition professionals, 86 percent of respondents indicated their schools will offer “multiple meal delivery options to meet continued pandemic protocol and social distancing guidelines.” Meal models such as grab- and-go, classroom feeding, curbside pick-up, and meals ‘to-go’ home with students were integral to feeding students during the 2020-21 school year and will remain important options this upcoming year to ensure students continue to have access to these meals. Yet one challenge schools continue to face is awareness. Many students and families are not aware that free school meals are available for all children. So, it is important to continue to spread theword. Whether it is creating PSAs or increasing communication to parents through an assortment of platforms, this can be accomplished a variety of ways. American Dairy Association North East commends all school nutrition staff for their commitment and dedication to ensure students are fueled to learn. We are always here to assist you in your efforts. To raise program awareness, improve efficiency with meal delivery and service models, or providing new menu and recipe ideas to reengage students and build meal participation. Please contact us at schools@milk4u.org or visit AmericanDairy.com .

milk – have improved attendance, behavior, and standardized test scores. And that success is not limited to the classroom. Milk is especially beneficial for student-athletes looking to perform their best on the field or in the gym. So, it should come as no surprise that 9 out of 10 U.S. Olympians grew up drinking milk. “I think milk is so important as an athlete because it helps replenish everything you lose when you work out,” said Katy Headwell, Director of Food Services at Shenendehowa Central Schools and a former Division I swimmer at the University of Connecticut. “Milk has the right mix of nutrients to replenish your muscles and help get you back on track for your next work out.”

FALL 2021 Flavored milk is already a popular option in schools and delivers all the same nutrients as white milk. Headwell added, “Our student-athletes love chocolate milk at our school, and we can’t keep it stocked. They are always looking for a quick snack that will refuel them for their busy lifestyles.” The best milk for students is the one they will drink. Offer a variety of flavors to add excitement to your meal line. And serve it the way they love it…COLD! Click here to pre-register for the Strive for 35 Cold Milk Program . For additional resources on the benefits of school milk, contact our Youth Nutrition Specialists at schools@milk4u.org or visit AmericanDairy.com . FreshBites 56

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FALL 2021