Nutrition & Health

To support healthier consumer choices, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has proposed mandatory front-of-package labels on packaged foods and beverages highlighting levels of nutrients to limit—saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. The University of California Research Consortium on Beverages and…

In a new study published in the Journal of School Health, researchers sought to understand food service directors’ perceptions of why some students were not participating in school meals even when they were served free of charge to all public school students in the U.S. during the COVID-19…

A new study showed statewide School Meals for All policies are associated with lower prevalence of household food insecurity, particularly among families with lower incomes. Researchers surveyed 3,377 caregivers of school-aged children from eight states—four with universal school meal policies including…

A new qualitative study in the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management found that reusable serviceware—like trays, cutlery, and bulk condiment dispensers—were widely accepted in a California school district pilot program. Students successfully advocated for reducing single-use items, prompting…

Preserve It! Summer With Watermelon! by UCCE Master Food Preserver Laurie Lewis Nothing quenches thirst in the heat of the summer as a sweet watermelon can. Who else has childhood memories holding a generous slice in your hands, biting into the fruit as the juice ran down both arms?Watermelon Rinds…

A new study exploring caregiver perceptions revealed that caregivers believe that social interaction during school meals is important for their children and may encourage healthy meal consumption. Universal School Meals provide school-aged students with nutritious breakfasts and lunches on all school…

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children, commonly known as WIC, supports the health of low-income pregnant and postpartum women, infants, and young children by providing access to nutritious foods, nutrition education, and health referrals through state and local agencies…