Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to mandate that all public schools in Minnesota, including charter schools, offer a plant-based meal option in their lunch services. This initiative is aimed at providing students with dietary choices that exclude animal products, thus supporting diverse dietary preferences and needs.

Main Provisions

• Definitions: The bill defines a plant-based meal as one that contains no meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, or any animal products, instead consisting of components derived from plants like fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes.

• Requirement to Offer Plant-Based Meals: Starting in the 2026-2027 school year, all public schools participating in the National School Lunch Program must provide at least one plant-based meal option daily. This is contingent on a prior written request made by or for a student.

• Nutrition Compliance: Plant-based meals must meet federal nutrition guidelines to ensure they are nutritionally adequate for students.

• Information Accessibility: Schools are required to inform students and parents about the availability of plant-based meal options and how to request them.

Implementation and Oversight

• Guidelines and Assistance: The Minnesota Department of Education will develop guidelines and provide support to schools for implementing these meal options, including meal development resources and training for school nutrition teams.

• Monitoring and Compliance: The Department of Education will monitor schools' compliance with the new requirements and can take action against those not adhering to the rules.

Reporting Requirements

• Schools must submit an annual report detailing the number of plant-based meals offered, requests received and fulfilled, and any challenges in implementation. This report is to be submitted to the Department of Education.

Relevant Terms

plant-based meal options, public schools, National School Lunch Program, nutrition guidelines, Department of Education, dietary needs, animal products, plant-derived foods