March is National Nutrition Month. Throughout the month, USDA will be highlighting results of our efforts to improve access to safe, healthy food for all Americans and supporting the health of our next generation.
The upsurge in healthy eating and food security campaigns is really resonating with schoolchildren, so much so, that a day has been set aside for youth around the world to share their experiences. The celebration of this movement – International School Meals Day – draws our attention to the importance of good nutrition for all children.
March 3 marks the fourth consecutive year that USDA will partner with the United Kingdom to invite children from across the globe to promote nutrition and school meals, this year focusing on introducing fresh and healthy local fare into their diets. On that day children will connect through social media to share their food experiences and healthy eating habits.
I’m looking forward to witnessing the fun first-hand at Glen Forest Elementary School in Fairfax County, Va., where students will Skype with their peers at Washingborough Academy in the UK. I’m sure it will be a great learning experience for the students and me alike.
In the last decade the momentum for healthier eating has found a place in the world’s conscience. The International School Meals Day initiative literally brings together the world’s children to elevate awareness on the importance of nutritional quality in school meal programs while raising universal consciousness of hunger and poverty.
As a lifelong school nutrition advocate I am delighted by the progress that’s been made both domestically and internationally to improve the nutrition and well-being of our youth. To see children the world over embrace this health movement is inspiring.
So on behalf of USDA I offer a heartfelt “thank you” to the organizers of International School Meals Day and all those who participate. You are helping ensure a brighter and healthier future for our world!
