School Lunch Prices Increase, Will Include Healthier Options

As we all know, eating healthier can come out a cost. 

As part of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, many area school boards have voted this year to increase lunch prices to meet federal regulations. 

The purpose of the act is to address childhood obesity, which has been an issue across the nation for awhile, and to teach healthier lifestyles for children. 

• In District 47, parents for elementary and middle schools students will pay $2.10 for lunch prices this year and milk will cost 55 cents. 
• For District 158, student lunch at the kindergarten through fifth grade schools will be $2.20. A student lunch for those in grades 6 through 12 will range from $2.20 to $2.50. While most lunches will be $2.20, a few higher cost menu items will be available at a cost of $2.50.

In District 47, the 2011-12 menu will be focused on lowering the sodium calorie and saturated fat limits.

Starting in 2012-13, D47 kids will see more whole-grain foods, dark green and orange vegetables, dry beans and peas, low-fat and fat-free milk and milk products. 

But what do you think, will you be sending more packed lunches this year? Are you on board with paying more to give healthier choices? Or are you against it —do you oppose the federal government regulating healthier choices?