From Fish Sticks to Fresh Catches: How Monterey Schools Are Spicing Up Lunch

Imagine trading in your school’s greasy fish sticks for a plate of fresh, locally caught seafood. In Monterey Bay, California, students are diving into this delicious reality thanks to the Bay2Tray program. Founded by Jenn Lovewell, this initiative connects schools directly to local fishermen, allowing kids to enjoy things like fish tacos instead of their former cafeteria nemesis, the fish stick. You know it’s serious when the kids prefer tacos over pizza!

This program has repurposed over 75,000 pounds of seafood waste, ensuring that it doesn’t just go to waste—perfect for a school lunch menu that’s as healthy as it is tasty. But it’s not just about food; it’s an opportunity to teach kids about sustainable eating and support local economies. Talk about a lunch with a lesson! Will this help turn our future generations into conscious eaters focused on sustainability?

What’s even cooler is that the program is gaining traction, inspiring similar Sea-to-School initiatives across the U.S. Schools from Oregon to Maine are jumping on the bandwagon, showing that fresh seafood can be a classroom hit. Who knew school lunched could be so progressive? Time to say goodbye to frozen rectangles of mystery meat and hello to the catch of the day!

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