MANASSAS, Va. -
With a crunch comes the biggest change to school nutrition in years. As one kid put it, "It's good." Even good enough to make it past these tiny taste testers at Yorkshire Elementary School in Prince William County.
They were joined by the Deputy Undersecretary of Agriculture for Food, Nutrition and Consumer Services.
The USDA has launched a program called "The School Day Just Got Healthier." They are changing school menus based upon an act of Congress. The changes mean there will be more of some things and less of others.
"We'll see more fresh fruits and vegetables, more whole grains, looking at reductions in fat and sugars," says Dr. Janey Thornton.
The kids are testing five new items. If you like it, you circle the smiley face on a sheet of paper. There was broccoli salad, black bean pizza, even plantains.
"The kids have to buy in. Nutrition that goes in the trash can isn't nutrition," says Serena Southers from the Prince William County Schools.
Fifth grader Tyanna Mason has noticed the changes and is glad she can now take two vegetables in the lunch line.
"So you can build more muscles and everything so that when I get older, I can get a good job so I won't be like a couch potato," says Mason.
