Change in school lunch guidelines

NEW YORK (WABC) -- Public school students nationwide may see more meat on their lunch plates.

The government is relaxing the new healthy lunch guidelines. In a letter to congress, the agency now says it will no longer limit the amount of meat or grains. This comes after increasing criticism from some lawmakers that since the new rules went into effect this school year, kids are not getting enough to eat.

In video that went viral , Kansas high school students said they're still hungry and don't have enough energy for sports.

The new lunch guidelines limit calories, salt and fat and require more fresh fruits and vegetables.

Pediatric Dietitian Andrea Rumschlag says one size does not fit all when it comes to nutrition requirements.

"Depending on a child and their level of activity the new guidelines are more restrictive," she said.

Student athletes need more calories and should pack an afternoon snack. And she says school lunches are not the only solution to fight childhood obesity- but it's a good start

USDA says they posted the updated guidelines online and are in the process of notifying schools. And they will continue to be flexible as problems arise.

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