The Moose Lake School Food Service Staff have been busy menu planning (using healthier options), and allowing students to participate in testing some of the new menu items. With the help of "Meal Magic" a nutrition analysis program, Becky Holt has been working to make each day's lunch meet the dietary requirements (as opposed to a weekly average). This is one of the main goals on the Wellness Committee's action plan, and great changes have been happening as part of this process!
On January 28, the Kitchen Staff conducted a hummus taste test for all students, K-12, as they entered the cafeteria for lunch. As with the previous taste test, Mrs. Rodysill's students assisted. The theme was to taste a healthy, unusual snack. A printed list of facts about hummus was also displayed in the hallway for students to read.
Some of the students helped to prepare the hummus by scooping it into 2oz souffle cups and added two to three mini carrots. Others handed out the cups to students who wanted to participate as they came by. Another student manned the garbage cans, one with a happy face if you liked the hummus, and another with a sad face, if you did not like the hummus. After each section of students was served, Kitchen Staff determined if the hummus was liked or not liked by observing how full each garbage can was.
The results were recorded and showed that the majority of the students liked the hummus, but it was a close call.
The next week the Kitchen Staff served a "Super Foods Lunch Day". The menu included the following:
- A super sub on whole grain bread with hummus, turkey, cheese, and spinach
- A sweet potato fries medley
- A blueberry magic dessert with slivered almonds
The students enjoyed the opportunity to try the different foods that will be integrated into the lunch menu to make it more healthy overall. Way to go Kitchen Staff!!
