October 19, 2009
Florida "Seafood to Schools" Program
The Florida "Seafood to Schools" program seeks to bring nutritious seafood from local sources to Florida’s school lunchrooms. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services surveyed the state’s 67 school districts to determine demand for Florida seafood products in elementary, middle and high schools. Feedback indicated there are opportunities for Florida seafood suppliers to provide products for Florida schools.
Good eating habits can begin at school. Including seafood early in a young person’s diet sets the stage for the proper nutrition that young bodies need for growth and development and a healthy future. Seafood is a good source of high-quality, low fat protein as well as omega-3 fatty acids and provides a variety of menu options. Compared to other meats, seafood is low in calories and cholesterol.
Every year, Florida schools spend millions of dollars for school lunch programs. The “Seafood to Schools” program is intended to open the door for more of those dollars to stay within Florida. It will also support Florida fishermen by promoting opportunities for schools and seafood suppliers to work together to increase the volume of locally harvested seafood product served in school cafeterias. Incorporating local products into school meals also supports local economies, reduces transportation costs, and helps support Florida’s seafood industry.
A Florida seafood company interested in selling products to a Florida school district or a school district looking for seafood resources can get more information and details at
www.fl-seafood.com/industry/seafoodtoschool. This web site provides information about the availability of fresh Florida seafood, the needs of the schools, and contact information for schools and seafood suppliers. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will work with the schools and the seafood suppliers to make sure each side is aware of mutual business opportunities available through this program.
For more information:
Barbera Turnbull
(850) 488-0163
turnbub@doacs.state.fl.us
