NPPGA: Proposed School Lunch Changes Could Have Unintended Consequences

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is proposing to change the nutritional guidelines for the school lunch program that would restrict students to just one cup of certain vegetables per week. These vegetables include peas, lima beans, corn, and potatoes!  Not one cup of each per week, but one cup total of any combination of these vegetables per week!

The Northern Plains Potato Growers Association (NPPGA) based in East Grand Forks, MN which represents the potato industry in North Dakota and northwest Minnesota believes that the health of our nation’s children is a top priority and applauds efforts to improve children’s nutrition. However, recommendations to reduce vegetables such as potatoes, corn, and peas as outlined in the USDA’s proposed rule on Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs could have adverse effects on children’s health.