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School Lunches Will Undergo Major Changes By 2025

Author Phil Harris
Students talk in the school cafeteria during lunch at North Hampton School in North Hampton, New Hampshire. (Photo by Debbi Morello/Getty Images)

Your child’s school lunches could start to taste very different in the near future, and it’s probably for the better. According to ABC News, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is calling for less sugar and salt in the food served in America’s school cafeterias.

This is the first time a USDA-mandated limit will be placed on added sugars in school lunches. The agency wants to cut sugars to less than 10 percent of daily calories. The USDA has also updated its guidelines to cut sodium by 15 percent, which is half of the 30-percent reduction that was proposed in 2023.

The rules also require more whole grains, but won’t ban chocolate milk or other flavored dairy products. These new restrictions will begin with the 2025-26 school year. Given the state of our nation’s health, these changes are long overdue. Still, I can’t help but wonder if rectangle pizza will still be on the menu.

School Lunches vs. Lunchables

Some health-conscious parents opt to send their kids off to school with a lunch they pack at home. But are they really any better than the school lunches being served in the cafeterias? Maybe if the lunch is actually homemade. Unfortunately, pre-packaged meal options, such as Lunchables, may be even worse.

Lunchables have been around for decades because kids love them. And let’s face it, they’re really convenient. However, some of the companies that makes them are now facing a class action lawsuit. Kraft Heinz and Maple Leaf Foods are being accused of deceptive advertising and packaging.

Consumer Reports tested 12 different pre-packaged lunch kits and found concerning levels of lead, cadmium, or both in all of them. They also found high levels of sodium in the lunch kits, ranging from 460 to 740 milligrams. That’s nearly 25- to 50-percent of a child’s daily recommended limit.

Lunch Kit Brands Respond

Kraft Heinz, the parent company of Oscar Mayer, Lunchables, and P3, said in a statement: “All our foods meet strict safety standards,” and “lead and cadmium occur naturally in the environment and may be present in low levels in food products.” Smithfield Foods, which makes Armour LunchMakers, said it follows “strict programs and policies that promote food safety and quality in every step of our value chain.” Target, which sells Good & Gather products, did not respond to Consumer Reports.

One pre-packaged lunch kit brand is already looking at making changes. Maple Leaf Foods, the Canadian company behind Greenfield Natural Meat Co., says it hopes to offer a reduced-sodium product by the end of 2025. But aside from the sodium, most of the tested lunch kit products also contained highly-processed meats, which have been linked to certain cancers. You can read more about the study HERE.

Phil Harris is 50% of "Phil & Mel in the Afternoon" on K104.7. He has been with the station since 2013 and on the air in Charlotte since 2000. Before coming to the Queen City, Phil worked for radio stations in Pittsburgh, Austin, and Seattle. In addition to the weekly "Throwback Threesome" music video feature, Phil writes about things that matter to Charlotte sports fans and pet owners. He happens to be both.

6 Go-To Meals for Adults Who Eat Like Children

Ever catch yourself secretly craving those comfort foods from your childhood? Eating habits are a fundamental aspect of our daily lives, reflecting our culture, upbringing, and personal preferences. It’s natural for children to have unique and sometimes unconventional eating habits. But it’s interesting to know that there are adults who proudly embrace eating like children. Gravitating towards what some might call “childish meals.” These people, unapologetically, opt for the comforting and familiar flavors of childhood, turning to dishes that might make a Michelin-star chef raise an eyebrow.

One reason adults may adopt childlike eating habits is the comfort of familiarity. Many of us have fond memories of childhood meals and snacks, and for some, replicating these flavors can provide a sense of nostalgia and security. Whether indulging in a favorite cereal or enjoying a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, these comfort foods can offer a brief escape from the complexities of adult life.

Childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free

In times of stress or challenges, these dishes offer a sense of security and ease, like a cozy blanket for the palate. The preparation and consumption of childish meals are straightforward and hassle-free.

After a demanding day, adults may go for dishes that require minimal effort and decision-making. Adulting can be overwhelming at times, with its responsibilities, stressors, and expectations. Eating like a child can serve as a temporary escape from these pressures. It’s a way to rebel against the constraints of adulthood, if only for a moment. In a world that often demands seriousness and discipline, indulging in playful and carefree eating can be a form of self-care.

Shared sense of nostalgia

Interestingly, eating like a child can also be a social activity. It might serve as a bonding experience among friends or family members, creating a shared sense of nostalgia. This behavior can be especially prevalent at themed parties, where adults gather to relive their childhoods through food and games.

Food preferences are highly subjective. Some adults simply enjoy the taste and texture of these childhood dishes, regardless of any deeper motivations. Personal taste plays a significant role in meal choices.

Dishes like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, mac ‘n’ cheese, or chicken tenders offer comfort, memories, and a connection to the past. So, when you see someone enjoying their favorite childhood meal, remember it’s more than just food. It’s a reminder that simple joys are often the best.

Take a look at these go-to meals for adults who eat like children.

  • Macaroni and Cheese

    Gooey, cheesy, and served with a side of warm nostalgia, mac ‘n’ cheese has an enduring appeal for many adults. Its simplicity and comfort make it a beloved choice among those who eat like children. Plus, it’s easy to make or dump out of a box into a pot.

    American creamy macaroni and cheese pasta

    OlgaMiltsova/ Getty Images

  • Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches:

    The classic combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly or jam between two slices of bread is a timeless favorite. It’s a simple pleasure that resonates with adults seeking a taste of their carefree days. A sweet and nutty symphony that satisfies the kid in you with refined taste.

    Homemade Crustless Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich with Chips

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

  • Chicken Tenders and Fries

    Crispy chicken tenders paired with seasoned fries provide a satisfying and familiar meal. Their widespread availability makes them a reliable choice for those moments when you’re not sure what to order. This childhood classic still holds a special place in the hearts (and palates) of adults who appreciate its uncomplicated goodness.

    Homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders and French Fries on a white plate, side view.

    Liudmyla Chuhunova/ Getty Images

  • Sloppy Joe

    Sloppy Joe’s are messy and fun to eat. An explosion of ground beef, onions, peppers, and a tangy tomato sauce that’s so messy, you’ll need a bib (or a sense of adventure). Enjoy it piled high on a fresh brioche bun, and embrace the chaos as you bite into this wild and wonderfully messy delight.

    Salsa Sloppy Joe

    chas53/ Getty Images

  • Cereal and Milk

    Many adults grew up eating cereal as a staple breakfast or snack. It brings back fond memories of childhood mornings and simple, carefree times. Cereal is incredibly convenient. It requires minimal preparation too. Just pour it into a bowl, add milk, and you’re good to go. This makes it an attractive option for busy adults. And it comes in a wide range of flavors and types, from sugary classics to healthier options.

    Young beautiful woman in morning bed at home. Eating breakfast chocolate cereal bowl with milk. Enjoying eating tasty yummy food for morning breakfast.

    Vlad Dmytrenko/ Getty Images

  • Mini Pizza Bagels

    Mini pizza bagels often bring back fond memories of childhood lunches or after-school snacks. Many adults have a nostalgic attachment to them, making them a comforting choice. The combination of soft bagels, savory sauce, gooey cheese, and toppings provides a delightful mix of textures and flavors that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

    Frozen Mini PIzza Bagels with Cheese and Pepperoni

    bhofack2/ Getty Images

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