Meal Pattern/Nutrition
Food and Nutrition Services recognizes the important connection between a healthy diet and a student’s ability to learn effectively and achieve high standards in school. As a part of our commitment to help build a healthier student body, our department ensures that all menus meet the required nutrient levels for specific age or grade groups for eight essential nutrients including calories, protein, total fat, saturated fat, vitamins A and C, iron and calcium. Pasco County school meals average around 28% or less of calories from total fat, and approximately 7% calories from saturated fat when averaged over the school week. This is better than the national standards!
Breakfast must meet 1/4 of the RDA and lunch must meet 1/3 of the RDA for each age/grade group.
Breakfast Meal Pattern
For breakfast, all students get a choice of three (3) different items. One item can be selected from the main fare group, one from the fruit group, and one from the milk group. To be a complete breakfast, students must select at least two (2) different items. The meal price is the same whether students select two items or three items. Therefore, we recommend students select three items to help ensure they are getting the nutrients their bodies need in the morning.
Lunch Meal Pattern
For lunch, all students get a choice of four (4) different items. One item must be selected from the entree group, two different items from the fruit and vegetable group, and one item from the milk group. To be a complete lunch, students must select an entree and one other item from either the milk group or the fruit and vegetable group.
If your child currently brings a lunch from home, we encourage you to give the school lunch program a try. We have three full-time registered dietitians that work with our schools, vendors, and suppliers to plan healthy meals that are kid-approved. We conduct student taste tests on all of our menu items, select high-quality foods that contain whole-grains, and continue to serve fresh fruits and vegetables at an affordable cost. Students that bring meals from home are welcome to purchase additional foods such as fresh fruit, bottled water, or cold milk to supplement their lunch from home.
If your child needs assistance with special meals due to a food allergy or medical condition, please contact our registered dietitian. We have nutrient lists and food allergy information available online or by request. If you have any questions regarding the menus or nutrients, please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address), RD/LDN at (813) 794-2739.
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Current meal prices
Reduced Price Breakfast: $0.30
Reduced Price Lunch: $0.40
Full Price Breakfast
Elementary: $1.25
Secondary: $1.40
Full Price Lunch
Elementary: $2.00
Secondary Classic: $2.50
Secondary Alternative: $3.00
Nondiscrimination Statement
In accordance with Federal Law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability.
To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call toll free (866) 632-9992 (Voice). Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339; or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
