From Policy to Plate: The Role of Child Nutrition Programs in Filling Nutrition Gaps and Promoting Whole Grain Intake

Federal nutrition programs such as the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), the School Breakfast Program (SBP), the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), and the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) help ensure kids have access to nutritious foods and can help participants meet dietary recommendations. Each program has a whole grain requirement; but overall, kids’ intakes of whole grains fall short of recommendations. Promoting higher whole grain intakes through participation in Child Nutrition Programs can help kids establish a healthier eating pattern in recognition of whole grain’s health benefits. How can we promote whole grain intake and what is the role of policy in in helping kids meet dietary guidance?

In the first part of the webinar, you’ll learn about the nutrition standards in Child Nutrition Programs and WIC, and research on the positive contributions these programs can make in kids’ diets. The second half will dive deeper to shine light on why whole grains are a critical part of Child Nutrition Programs’ standards for health, how policy can promote higher whole grain intakes, and ways health professionals can be a voice in the public policy dialogue on child nutrition.

Thanks to the General Mills Bell Institute for Health and Nutrition for sponsoring this session!