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10 most popular meals Chartwells K12 is serving in schools this year

List was compiled based on intel collected from teams serving school districts in nearly 40 states.

Mike Buzalka, Executive Features Editor

August 10, 2023

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What's popular in school meal programs this year? Chartwells K12, a company that serves some two million meals a day in 4,500 schools nationwide and therefore should have some insight, has released a list of its 10 most popular meals in lunchrooms, compiled based on intel collected from teams serving school districts in nearly 40 states. From international cuisines to plant-based meals and breakfast, the company predicts that these are the flavors and meals kids will be lining up for.

“We have so much fun creating dishes for students, and it’s so insightful to see what becomes the fan favorites,” remarks Chef Peter Gilhooly, Chartwells K12's vice president of culinary. “You would be amazed by how many kids are willing to try unfamiliar flavors and ingredients or menu items from different cultures. This year, kids will be eating delicious and healthy meals that are fueling their bodies and minds for a successful school day.”

So, without further ado, here are the top 10 most popular meals Chartwells K12 is serving in schools across the country this year...

About the Author

Mike Buzalka

Executive Features Editor, Food Management

Mike Buzalka is executive features editor for Food Management and contributing editor to Restaurant Hospitality, Supermarket News and Nation’s Restaurant News. On Food Management, Mike has lead responsibility for compiling the annual Top 50 Contract Management Companies as well as the K-12, College, Hospital and Senior Dining Power Players listings. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English Literature from John Carroll University. Before joining Food Management in 1998, he served as for eight years as assistant editor and then editor of Foodservice Distributor magazine. Mike’s personal interests range from local sports such as the Cleveland Indians and Browns to classic and modern literature, history and politics.

Mike Buzalka’s areas of expertise include operations, innovation and technology topics in onsite foodservice industry markets like K-12 Schools, Higher Education, Healthcare and Business & Industry.

Mike Buzalka’s experience:

Executive Features Editor, Food Management magazine (2010-present)

Contributing Editor, Restaurant Hospitality, Supermarket News and Nation’s Restaurant News (2016-present)

Associate Editor, Food Management magazine (1998-2010)

Editor, Foodservice Distributor magazine (1997-1998)

Assistant Editor, Foodservice Distributor magazine (1989-1997)

 

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