Allendale schools launch new food policy providing larger portions

Sept. 30—Just before school started for Allendale children, an existing policy was updated to give students more flexibility in portion size at lunch. At a time when government policies have trickled into the local school systems with an aim to address obesity and offer better nutritious food, Allendale is taking note of the benefits and consequences of such policies.

While school officials have said they will not be changing the food options and remain diligent in addressing wellness and obesity, there are other issues they have to consider. The district had been part of the Federal School Lunch Program in which vendors would have to document that it met the requirements, but in doing so, it also limited portion size.

School Board member Todd Fliegel said it's become "a one-size fits all approach," which certainly has addressed some of the issues related to health and obesity, but it's affected other areas, too, he said.