Food in Schools: Novato Unified School District, California

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Novato Unified School District in the California bay area is a leader in bringing healthy, fresh options to their schools and removing unhealthy, competitive options. Serving a significant number of low-income families, serving nutritious food is important, since some kids may go home to meals lacking important nutrition. The district’s director of food and nutrition services, Miguel Villarreal, was named a runner-up for the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM) Golden Carrot Award for innovation in school food service.

Mr. Villarreal eliminated red meat, soda, and most processed foods at the school several years ago. He uses the cost-savings from unhealthful foods to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers. Popular menu items include veggie burgers with cucumber coins, fresh salads with pita chips, and sun butter sandwiches. Novato Unified School District continues to be a healthy food pioneer in California and the rest of the country.