School regs cause more waste in Ohio district

June 24—School board members at the Milford (Ohio) schools are considering ways to cut food waste.

In 2012, meal options were modified in Milford schools to reflect new U.S. Department of Agriculture and Ohio Department of Education standards. Nutrition services staff now must offer more fruits and vegetables. Students who order tray meals must select at least one fruit or vegetable. Many students throw out their fruit and vegetable selections, said Gerry Levy, nutrition services director.

Students who order tray lunches are not the only ones who have an impact on waste, Levy said. Fruits and vegetables must be available to all students eating school lunches. Whatever food students do not take must be thrown out.