MISSISSIPPI SCHOOL NUTRITION
Healthy school meals play an important role in supporting student health, academic achievement, and lifelong well-being. Across Mississippi, schools are working to meet the nutrition needs of students, but opportunities remain to strengthen policies that improve access to healthy food and create healthier school environments.
To help address these challenges, the American Heart Association is advocating for practical, student-centered policy solutions in Mississippi, including ensuring students have enough time to eat, expanding access to free school meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP), and increasing access to nutritious, minimally processed foods that support lifelong healthy habits.
We invite parents, students, educators, health professionals, community leaders, and advocates to join us in advancing policies that support healthier school nutrition across Mississippi. Explore the issues, learn more about our policy priorities, and discover ways to get involved in creating healthier futures for Mississippi’s children.
Policy Issues
Time to Eat
Students need enough time to enjoy the healthy meals served at school. Ensuring adequate seated eating time can support better nutrition, reduce food waste, and help students stay focused and ready to learn throughout the day.
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Community Eligibility Provision
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) helps eligible schools provide free breakfast and lunch to all students. Expanding CEP participation can increase access to healthy meals, reduce administrative burdens, and support student health and academic success.
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Ultra Processed Foods
Students thrive when healthy choices are easy choices. Reducing reliance on ultra-processed foods and increasing access to nutritious, minimally processed options can help create healthier school food environments and support lifelong heart-healthy habits.
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Become an Advocate
Join our network of supporters working to improve school nutrition and student health across Mississippi.
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Share Your Story
Your experiences can help demonstrate why healthy school nutrition policies matter. Tell us how school meals, nutrition, or food access have impacted you or your community.
Share Your Story