Summary
A recent poll shows that most Americans think schools should offer plant-based meals and nondairy drinks. This comes as part of a focus on improving children's health, including reducing obesity and other health issues. The survey found that many support laws to make healthier options available in schools.
Key Facts
- 67% of American adults support having plant-based meals and nondairy drinks in school cafeterias.
- A study at a school in Washington, D.C., showed plant-based meals are higher in fiber and lower in fat than regular school lunches.
- About 20% of U.S. children and teenagers are affected by obesity.
- Legislative efforts like the Healthy Future Students and Earth Pilot Program Act aim to fund schools to provide plant-based meals.
- Schools currently need a doctor's note to offer nondairy milk alternatives like soy milk.
- There's a widespread lack of awareness about lactose intolerance rates, which vary among different communities.
- Fortified soy milk is considered a good nutritional alternative for children who cannot consume dairy milk.
