Des Moines, Iowa (RI) — The Iowa legislature is considering a bill to override federal nutritional requirements for school breakfast and lunch programs. If the bill becomes law, the Iowa Department of Education would seek federal approval to adopt state-specific nutritional guidelines that make servings of meat and dairy products top priorities. The bill says regional food sources – like corn, pork and milk – are not adequately addressed by federal guidelines. Ben Nuelle is a lobbyist with the Iowa Pork Producers Association.
Democratic Representative Sami Scheetz of Cedar Rapids disagrees with the guidelines emphasizing meat and dairy foods in the menus for school lunches and breakfasts.
Federal guidelines for school meals include sodium and calories limits and emphasize whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy products. The bill would have state officials seek a federal waiver and the state would develop its own set of nutritional guidelines for meals served in schools.
