Not So Finger Licking Good
By Isabella Hentz
Should Hackett invest in revamping the lunch menu? Eighty percent of students say YES!!!
Hackett has had a successful and appreciated lunch program, but when asked if changes to the menu would be a good idea, students were quick to express their opinions. A survey was created in which 120 students responded to questions regarding their interest in a new and healthier lunch menu.
The results show that 50% of students regularly order lunch and 35% occasionally buy the fries or drinks. In the survey, the following choices were given: salad bar, soups, sandwiches, baked veggies, mac and cheese, and vegetarian options. The most popular option was the salad bar, with a whopping 80% of students in favor of the possible addition.
It was also revealed that many students feel the current options are especially greasy and processed, with many calling for more organic options. Senior Elsie Copp pointed out the lack of choices, saying, “There's healthier options for students other than pizza and breadsticks.”
When speaking directly to students, many of them had complaints on how often pizza is offered and the ratio of greasy or processed food compared to fresh fruits and vegetables. Some students even tend to opt out of the provided lunch during their sports season.
“We feel gross and get cramps at practice,” says senior Alex Dumont. This reveals that our athletes are in need of proper nutrition to perform their best at practices and games.
As there are currently some fruit and salad options, students feel that the entrees should be healthier. “Not saying they need to remove anything, but add healthier options for a decent price,” says senior Nolan Silkworth.
However, there are limitations as to what can be provided due to the funding of the various programs here at Hackett. In public schools nearby, such as Portage Northern, their menu consists of brown fried rice, fresh stir fried vegetables, BBQ pork sandwiches, and more.
When discussing the possibilities of readjusting Hackett’s lunch menu, Rhonda Clark, the Food Service Director, stated, “The food service here at Hackett is self-funded, we do not receive any outside funding. Prices could potentially change depending on the items.”
Meaning, if we were to get healthier options it may cost more per student. She continued by saying, “Changing the menu is realistic, but there is a time restraint and a staff shortage to consider.”
In conclusion, 80% of students feel that it would be beneficial to revamp the lunch options, with the popular suggestion of a salad bar. It was made clear that this change is possible, but only with certain adjustments. However, with the right alterations, we could see an improvement in Hackett’s lunch menu.