IL HR0687

Chicago Public Schools adopted a district-wide prohibition on pork products in all breakfast and lunch offerings in December 2020 as part of its Local School Wellness Policy, affecting approximately 350,000 daily meals served to over 325,000 students.

Public records requests found no documentation explaining the rationale, nutrition analysis, cost analysis, or Board deliberation supporting the pork ban.

The resolution urges the CPS Board of Education to conduct a formal review of the pork prohibition, including disclosure of the original rationale and consultation with nutrition experts and stakeholders.

Illinois ranks fourth nationally in pork production, contributing over $11.9 billion annually to the state economy and supporting approximately 32,690 jobs.

The current ban prevents CPS from utilizing USDA-provided pork products available at reduced or no cost through the National School Lunch Program, limiting menu flexibility and cost-effective protein options.