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Committee advances plan to phase out processed meats in school meals; DOE signals phased approach
Summary
HCR 84/HR 76 asking DOE to create a plan to remove carcinogens (processed meats) from school meals was advanced; DOE said it is already transitioning away from processed meats (removing pepperoni next year, moving to more scratch cooking and vegetarian options) and cited staffing constraints. The committee passed the measure as is.
The House Committee on Education advanced HCR 84/HR 76 on March 31, asking the Department of Education to create a plan to remove carcinogens (specifically processed meats) from school meals and to identify healthier protein alternatives.
Shanta Tajima and other DOE representatives said the department is already transitioning away from processed meats: of the processed meats served, only breakfast sausage, pepperoni, and hot dogs remain, and pepperoni will be removed from next year’s menu. DOE said it plans to expand scratch cooking and vegetarian options but emphasized staffing constraints in school food service as a limiting factor.
Public commenters, including Victoria Anderson, cited World Health Organization findings about processed‑meat classification and urged a measured phase‑out (the resolution asks for planning to phase out processed meats by 2032 or to ensure healthier options are available). The committee passed the measure as introduced and expressed support for a thoughtful, science‑based, phased approach.
Next steps: DOE will continue to implement menu changes and develop a plan to identify costs and timelines; the committee action asks for a DOE study and planning rather than immediate bans or new appropriations.
