USDA published practical, science-based nutrition standards for snack foods and beverages sold to children at school during the school day.  The standards, required by the Healthy, Hunter-Free Kids Act, were named "Smart Snacks in Schools". Students across the country are now offered healthier school meals with more fruits, vegetables and whole grains.  The "Smart Snacks in Schools" standards will build on those healthy advancements and ensure that children are only offered tasty and nutritious foods during the school day.  Hill Top Academy food services staff has been working hard to instill healthy habits in our students.

"Smart Snacks in School" regulations group food into three distinct categories, each with their own set of standards:  Entrees (pizza, sandwiches, etc.) cannot contain more than 350 calories or 480 milligrams (mg.) of sodium; Sides (soups, cheese sticks, fries, etc.) cannot contain more than 200 calories or 200 mg. of sodium; Beverages have strict nutrient and serving size limitations based on age groups.  All three categories include further nutritional regulations for total fat, saturated fat, trans fat and sugars.