Chef Armstrong Lauds Healthier Food Choices in Schools

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced changes to the foods available in the nation’s public schools in an effort to offer students healthier choices.

Cathal Armstrong, the chef behind Old Town Alexandria’s Restaurant Eve, told Patch that it’s essential to address the issue of healthier food options in schools.

“Children need energy - in the form of good calories,” he said. “Evidence shows that a nutritious lunch helps children concentrate in class and boosts their retainment and learning.”

The award-winning chef is also the founder of Chefs As Parents, a nonprofit encouraging kids and parents to learn to cook as a way to learn about nutrition and healthy eating.

Armstrong added that it’s important for children to be introduced to healthy food choices while still very young. 

“The USDA policy changes allows an opportunity for us as a country to do this,” he said. “Together we, as parents and educators, must be responsible for providing a selection of healthy foods at meals and snack times. Ultimately, if we prevail, we ensure our 'future' (our children) will be both healthy and educated, which in turn will strengthen our nation. 

The agency is promoting more whole grains, low fat dairy, fruits, vegetable and leaner protein. The plan only affects foods sold during the school day and not at after-school sports events or special fundraisers.