Urban School Food Alliance (the Alliance), a coalition of the largest school districts in the United States celebrated Fresh Attitude Week last week. In collaboration with the French Department of Agriculture and in partnership with Interfel (French Inter-Branch Association of Fresh Fruits and Vegetables which created Fresh Attitude Week,), Fresh Attitude Week has become an annual event in Alliance districts in America. “Encouraging young people to eat fresh fruits and vegetables early in life enables them to develop healthy habits that can continue on to adulthood,” said Dr. Katie Wilson, executive director of the Urban School Food Alliance. “Alliance districts have worked hard to prepare innovative produce-based dishes for students to enjoy. Studies show that when students eat nutritious and delicious foods in school, the more likely they are to be successful in the classroom.” Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is a member of the Urban School Food Alliance and hosted a celebration at Byrne Elementary School where local chefs held food demonstrations. During Fresh Attitude Week, CPS served over 30 different fruits and vegetables at lunchtime including: jicama, grape tomatoes, pico de gallo, roasted plantains, cauliflower, and yellow squash.

Photo Credit: Urban School Food Alliance