Menus and food specifications are based upon the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the menu pattern as established by the United States Department of Agriculture.

The menu patterns are designed to contribute, at a minimum, one-fourth of the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for breakfast and one-third of the RDA for lunch for students in grades kindergarten through twelfth grade.

Breakfast Pattern:

4 Food items –

• ½ pint milk
• ½ cup fruit /or juice
• 2 servings of grain/bread or
• 2 servings of meat or meat alternate or
• 1 serving grain/bread and 1 serving of meat/meat alternate

Lunch Pattern:

5 Food items –

• ½ pint milk
• 2 servings vegetable/fruit from two different sources
• 1 serving of grain/bread
• 1 2-ounce serving of meat or meat alternate

At least three food items must be selected from the meal patterns.

Students with Special Dietary Needs:

Information from manufacturers, recipes prepared in school cafeterias, snack items, and allergy information may be directed to the Director, Office of Food and Nutrition Services at 410-887-7855.