This tool is designed to assist schools in meeting federal nutrition standards for foods sold outside of the school meal programs. It serves as a practical resource for determining whether a specific food item complies with the established guidelines for calories, fat, sugar, and sodium. As an example, a school wishing to sell granola bars can input the nutritional information from the product label into this digital aid to verify adherence to the Smart Snacks in School regulations.
Adherence to these regulations fosters a healthier school environment, reducing childhood obesity risks and promoting nutritious food choices among students. Historically, the implementation of the Smart Snacks standards stems from the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, aiming to improve the nutritional quality of foods available to children during the school day. This initiative helps ensure that students have access to healthier options, complementing the nutritious meals served in school cafeterias.
