It’s clear that all teenagers love to eat. Bethany has been known for their delicious and healthy meals, so it was a surprise for many to see that the cafeteria has made some changes in the meals they provide. These changes have not occurred by choice, and has been said to be quite a transition for them as they make and provide meals.
The changes, mandated by the federal government, are very detailed and complicated. All the news about unhealthy cafeteria food has been around for ages, but these changes came into action all over all schools in the United States in July of 2012. It has been said that the reason for these changes to occur are because the rate of obesity in children is rapidly increasing. Also, some children from poor families simply do not get to eat nutritious meals at home. These families can’t afford to buy healthy food products, so the only healthy meal provided for these children is their school cafeteria lunch.
The Bethany cafeteria staff has adapted to these changes, and have done their best to follow them. Everyone has noticed the fact that there are limited desserts this year. The reason for this is to cut back on the many carbohydrates deserts contain. The cafeteria staff is also required to serve more fruits and vegetables, milk, and grains. These food components are essential for a healthy diet and proper growth for teenagers.
Joy Yoder, the head chef in the Bethany cafeteria, has a big responsibility to keep the cafeteria in check. This new cafeteria policy is requiring certain components to serve over the course of the week, and this is not the end to the changes. These changes are only temporary, for the federal government is trying to gradually change the cafeteria policy. That means that next year, there will be more changes that will be noticed. Also, these changes are only involved in the high school for now, the lower school grades are still experiencing the old ways of the cafeteria. This is happening because the cafeteria staff is trying to gradually change their ways, and they feel that beginning with the high school is a good start.
The main goal here for the new changes in the cafeteria are to provide healthful meals for children to maintain a healthy diet. When it comes down to responsibility, the cafeteria staff has their hands full with trying their best to follow and fulfill these new regulations of a healthier and more balanced offer of food.
Although this is just the start of more changes to come, the cafeteria staff and students are adjusting well to the new cafeteria policy. Everyone now knows what to expect when it comes to food serving. These many changes are not only nutritious for the consumers, but it also provides habits for a well balanced meal plan for all.
~ Liz Deleeuw