A new survey of 1,300 school meal program directors reveals serious financial and operational challenges for the upcoming school year. The School Nutrition Association’s Back to School 2021 Survey also revealed grave concerns regarding the impact of future sodium regulations.

The survey found 97% of meal program directors are concerned about continued pandemic supply chain disruptions, and 90% worry about staff shortages. Meanwhile, 82% are concerned about low meal participation, and 86% revealed financial concerns. A majority of school nutrition directors also expressed concerns about future sodium regulations.

Schools significantly reduced the sodium in school meals to meet Target 1 limits and are working toward Target 2 limits. However, only 11% anticipate meeting the Final Target, scheduled to take effect in July 2022. 

SNA President Reggie Ross said, “School meal programs, which are critical to the health and success of millions of America’s students, face an uncertain future following the pandemic.”

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