Proposed bill could help modernize outdated school cafeterias

Many school cafeterias across the United States are challenged while preparing fresh, healthy meals because of outdated kitchens, but the School Food Modernization Act could bring those outdated kitchens up to date.

The bill—recently introduced by Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Rep. Glenn Thompson (R-PA), Rep. Chellie Pingree (D-ME) and Rep. Lou Barletta (R-PA)— would provide school districts with grants and a way to participate in a loan assistance program to buy equipment and make upgrades, provide training on how to cook fresh meals from scratch and strengthen workforce training.

A national survey found that 88 percent of school districts need at least one piece of new kitchen equipment, and 55 percent require infrastructure changes, according to the release.

“The research is clear: nutrition plays a critical role in a child’s development,” Rep. DeSaulnier said in a statement. “We committed to giving students the nourishment they need to learn and grow with new federal nutrition standards, but it is time we give our schools and their staff the tools they need to implement them."