What are students eating?

Student Nutrition Programs feed students healthy food based on the Guidelines for Student Nutrition Programs (SNP). These Guidelines are consistent with Canada's Food Guide.

The guidelines help to create simple menus for nutritious breakfasts, morning meals, lunches and snacks (Nutrition Guidelines - City of Toronto). Student Nutrition Programs help schools provide nutritious meals and/or snacks to children and youth. Students use what they learn about healthy eating in the classroom, home and in the community to make healthy food choices that have a lasting impact on their health.

Many Student Nutrition Programs are a reflection of their communities and the dietary needs of the students. Student Nutrition Programs should make every effort to offer foods and beverages that reflect the students' faiths and cultural diets. The Halal Food Standard is one example of a diet which is determined by a particular faith/culture.

To help keep children and youth with food allergies safe and feeling well, it’s important to be aware of food allergies and intolerance.  All Student Nutrition Programs need to follow their school's anaphylaxis protocols which include anaphylaxis emergency plans for students with allergies. (Learn more about emergency plans from your child’s school and TDSB policies and procedures PR.502: Operational Procedures). For more information about the difference between food allergies and food intolerance you can view Food Allergy Canada (Food Allergy Canada). You can also contact your child’s school or your local Public Health unit (Health & Wellness – City of Toronto).