AAP calls for universal school meals nationwide
The nation’s pediatricians say free meals for every student improve diet quality, reduce food insecurity, and support learning. It is a prevention tool hiding in plain sight.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued a new policy statement supporting universal school meals, calling them an important tool to improve child health, reduce food insecurity, and support academic success.
The organization points to evidence showing that school meal programs improve diet quality while helping ensure children have consistent access to nutritious food. The policy also highlights lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, when free meals for all students increased participation and improved food security.
According to the AAP, universal school meal programs can reduce stigma, eliminate unpaid meal debt, lower administrative burdens on schools, and help children across income levels access healthy food.
As rates of childhood obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases continue to rise, the nation’s pediatricians are adding their voice to the growing movement to strengthen nutrition and prevention efforts through schools.
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This update first appeared in the End Chronic Disease newsletter on July 2, 2026. AAP resources on nutrition in schools.
