NJ A1406

Public schools and nonpublic schools participating in the National School Lunch Program and federal School Breakfast Program must comply with USDA nutrition standards established in 7 C.F.R. Parts 210, 215, 220, 225, and 226 as required to be implemented by July 1, 2027

Schools must meet standards including 80% whole grain-rich weekly grains, sodium reduction targets (15% for lunch, 10% for breakfast by July 2027), and added sugar limits for cereals, yogurt, and flavored milk (no more than 10 grams per 8 oz of flavored milk)

Beginning in the 2027-2028 school year, added sugars must comprise less than 10% of weekly calories in school lunch and breakfast programs

Competitive foods sold on school campuses during the school day must also comply with the nutrition standards

The requirements take effect immediately and first apply to the 2025-2026 school year, with schools required to follow any future more stringent federal nutrition standards