Oregon school adds new healthy food options

Nov. 21—Greasy pizza and chocolate milk used to be a regular lunch choice for Howard Street Charter school, in Oregon, student Lauren Smith.

But with the launch of a new school lunch program this week, Smith is opting for a healthier meal — spaghetti with a side of applesauce and bite-sized carrots.

“I feel like it’s not a school lunch food and more like an actual meal,” Smith said.

The charter school is contracting this year with Salem-based Fresh n’ Local, which provides food to hospitals, schools and individuals throughout Oregon using natural, organic and local ingredients. The company doesn’t use any artificial ingredients or high-fructose corn syrup in its foods, according to its website.