New York bill would require schools to serve plant-based, kosher and halal menu items

A New York lawmaker has introduced a bill that would require public schools in the state to provide plant-based, kosher and halal menu items in the cafeteria.

Under the Making Equitable and Alternative Lunches (MEAL) Act, schools would have to provide a plant-based, kosher or halal alternative during every school meal or snack if a student requests one.

The alternative items would be offered at no additional cost. Students and their guardians would have the option to opt into those meals at the start of the school year and twice again during the year.

The bill has been referred to the Committee on Education.