School meals aren't the mystery-meat trays many of us remember. Federal nutrition standards under the National School Lunch Program require every tray to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, a protein source, and milk, with strict limits on saturated fat and sodium. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, USDA rules are also phasing in tighter limits on added sugars in cereals, yogurt, and flavored milk, with a broader 10%-of-calories cap on added sugars arriving by school year 2027-2028.