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Using Local and Healthy Texas Products to Prepare Meals Promotes Wellness and the Economy

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller recognized CFBISD with a Sharp Cheddar Award for its achievement in the Texas Department of Agriculture’s (TDA) 2018 Farm Fresh Challenge. Every October, participating schools are challenged to incorporate more Texas products in meals. Additionally, they provide memorable lessons about healthy lifestyles and Texas agriculture. Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD, Student Nutrition Department earned the Sharp Cheddar Award.

“Texas agriculture offers something local for any meal or menu. When schools serve that food in the cafeteria, families are more likely to do so at home,” Commissioner Miller said. “When school meals include products like citrus and lean beef, it provides a lesson in healthy eating that lasts a lifetime.”

More than 54 million meals are served during  challenge. It encourages each district to keep their buying power close to home. This also supports local economies and businesses.

Farm Fresh challenge participation increased 29 percent from 2017-2018, with more than 230 school districts participating in the 2018 Farm Fresh Challenge.  Sharp Cheddar Award winners met the second highest standards of the Farm Fresh Challenge and have showcased extraordinary commitment to Texas agriculture.  

Texas is one of the largest producers of fresh fruits and vegetables. Every Friday during the 2018-19 school year, elementary students have the opportunity to eat a fresh product grown in Texas. Each month highlights a different product and students choosing those products receive a “Farm Fresh Friday” sticker. Throughout this year, CFB students will enjoy Texas sweet peppers, watermelon, apples, carrots, spinach, button mushrooms, broccoli, and more. CFBISD students consume an average of 3,300 pounds of healthy fresh produce per school day.