Denver DPS Lunch Lines to Reduce Added Sugars
Denver Public Schools (DPS) is preparing for upcoming changes to school meal guidelines set by the USDA. These changes focus on reducing added sugars in breakfasts and lunches served across the district.
The new guidelines will be phased in over the next few years, with product-based limits taking effect in the 2025-2026 school year. This means limitations on sugar content in:
- Breakfast cereals (no more than 6 grams of added sugar per ounce)
- Yogurt (capped at 12 grams of added sugar per 6-ounce container)
- Flavored milk (restricted to 10 grams of added sugar per 8 ounces for elementary and middle school, 15 grams for high school)
By the 2027-2028 school year, additional weekly dietary limits will be implemented. These limits ensure that added sugars make up less than 10% of total calories across the entire school breakfast and lunch program.
Theresa Hafner, who oversees the Food Services Department for DPS, assures that the district is well-positioned to adapt.
“We’re a scratch-cooking district,” Hafner explained, “so we can already tweak our recipes to eliminate and limit added sugar.”
While some adjustments will be necessary, Hafner remains optimistic. “It can make our job a little more challenging, but it’s for the health of the kids. Added sugar is something we should all be aware of, and reducing it helps fight childhood obesity.”
The USDA’s new rules will also reduce allowed sodium levels by the 2027 school year. DPS will continue to update its menus and explore creative solutions to ensure healthy and delicious options for all students.
