As a new feature, “Law & Order” explores passed bills relevant to teachers and students. What impact will these decisions have on the school?
Schools across California are set to apply Senate Bill 348, which was approved by Gov. Gavin Newsom Sunday, Oct. 8, and change their lunch menus to require foods with less sodium and sugar starting this fall to further meet ideal student nutrition levels.
The bill requires that by 2025, schools must cut the sodium in their foods by 10% and cut off any high-sugar foods, such as yogurt and cereal. In the following two years, sodium is to be reduced by another 10% and sugar must compose less than 10% of students’ calories each week.
Finally, schools have to reduce the amount of sodium by 10% again in 2029, for a total 30% decrease in cafeteria foods in the span of four years.
Currently, the school follows the guidelines for Sodium Target 1A, United States Department of Agriculture regulation from 2022, which limits the sodium in the foods that are given out during break and lunch. Food services manager Asma Chaudhry said it is difficult to fully comply with the sodium guidelines because of the challenges that come with trying to serve both low-sodium and flavorful food to students.
“Students have a tendency to grab more than one packet of ketchup and mustard or Tajin at lunchtime,” Chaudhry said. “We try to reduce sodium by adding lemon juice, cumin and other spices.”
Despite these changes, junior Charles Kearney does not have issues with alterations to the school menu.
“I will still be getting school lunch regardless of the change,” Kearney said. “It’s convenient for me and gives me energy through the school day without going out of my way to bring lunch.”
Additionally, the junior said he sees the change not affecting how many students will get lunch.
“Whether or not the amount of sugar or sodium was concerning before this change I am not sure,” Kearney said. “As long as the quality of the food stays the same or becomes better, I believe most people will be OK with the change.”
