May 7, 2013

by Compassion Over Killing Staff

With nationwide childhood obesity rates reaching unprecedented levels, it’s clear that the time has come to swap the greasy cafeteria “mystery” meatloaf and fatty chicken nuggets out for healthier protein-packed plant-based options. This cafeteria conversion is well underway in schools across the US — from Meatless Mondays to all veg menus — and it’s good news for our health, the planet, and animals.

Most recently, an elementary school in Queens, New York City — Public School 244 — garnered national headlines when it announced that its cafeteria now dishes out 100 percent vegetarian meals, offering exclusively meat-free lunches to its 400 students. The story has reignited an important national discussion about childhood nutrition and how incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based foods can have a positive impact on student health as well as performance in the classroom.

While some schools worry whether children will want to eat healthier options, Bob Groff, principal of Public School 244, explains to ABC News how his students have embraced the new menu: “It’s been a really great response from the kids, but they also understand it’s about what is the healthiest option for them. Because we teach them throughout our curriculum to make healthy choices, they understand what is happening and believe in what we’re doing too.”