Senate bill would fund scratch cooking in school cafeterias

What does this do?

Senate bill S 4599 would create a pilot grant program at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help school districts shift from pre-packaged or heavily processed foods to meals made from scratch using fresh, unprocessed ingredients. Grants would last two school years each and could fund staff training, kitchen equipment, facility updates, additional labor costs, and student food education. The program would run from 2027 through 2031 and has only been introduced in the Senate so far.

Who does it affect?

The program would affect public school students, cafeteria workers, and school administrators nationwide. Students in lower-income districts would be first in line, as the program gives top priority to schools where the most students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.

Why does it matter?

Cafeteria workers could see changes in job duties, training opportunities, and potentially wages. Districts that outsource food service to private companies or lack union contracts for cafeteria workers would receive lower priority unless they commit to changing those conditions before the grant ends.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Up to $20M per year available
• Program runs 2027 through 2031
• Competitive grants to qualifying districts