New US Bill Seeks $10M Grant to Provide Plant-Based Meals to School Students

The Plant Powered School Meals Pilot Act is a new federal bill seeking a $10 million grant program to expand access to plant-based meals in schools. Introduced by Democratic Congresswomen Nydia Velázquez and Alma Adams, the bill aims to provide healthier, climate-friendly, and culturally appropriate vegan meals to school students. The funds will support training for foodservice staff, additional labor costs, and nutrition education for children over a three-year period.

In addition to promoting plant-based meals, the bill also addresses the issue of non-dairy milk in schools. It advocates for schools to offer non-dairy milk to any student upon request from a parent or guardian, without the need for a physician's note. The bill has received support from various groups such as physicians, dietitians, parents, and students, highlighting the importance of improving school meals for children's health and wellbeing.