KIDS' MEALS HEALTHIER WITH U.S.-GROWN RICE

The role of whole grains in boosting the nutritional value of children's meals is in the spotlight more than ever. Driving the focus on healthier eating are national programs like Kids LiveWell, developed by the National Restaurant Association and Healthy Dining Finder, MyPlate/Dietary Guidelines and First Lady Michelle Obama's efforts in K-12. Three of NRA's top 10 trends labeled as "hot" are related to kids' menus this year. The growing popularity of nutrient-rich foods, like 100% whole grain brown rice, helps foodservice professionals offer flavorful and nutritious meals children enjoy.

Read on for recipes and trends.


     
 

Nutritionally balanced children's meals must also appeal to their taste buds. Whole grain brown rice helps fulfill both. With 15 vitamins and minerals and 2 grams of fiber per one-half cup of cooked rice, brown rice is the perfect ingredient for creating popular, healthy meals.

Try these recipes and visit MenuRice.com for more kid-friendly menu ideas.

  
     
 
• Brown Rice Tabbouleh: Brown rice is combined with refreshing cucumbers, tomatoes and herbs—perfect for the salad bar or as a meal solution.
   
• Country Breakfast Rice Cereal: All-in-one dish includes whole grain brown rice, fruit, cinnamon and milk for a flavorful morning meal. A variety of toppings can be offered.
   
• California Sushi Rice Bowl: Start with a base of enriched white or whole grain brown rice, or both! Then add a variety of vegetable toppings, with crab and a touch of soy sauce and sesame oil.
   
• Brown Rice & Chicken Enchiladas: Corn tortillas are stuffed with chicken, brown rice, beans and cheese. A perfect menu addition to any type of operation.
 
     
     
  Keep up with the latest trends, contests and industry updates to see why rice fits perfectly with nutritious meals. Click and explore them all!
 
 
  • First Lady Michelle Obama, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack and Rachael Ray dined on turkey tacos with brown rice at Parklawn Elementary School in Alexandria, Virginia  
  • 2012 Industry Predictions from NRA, Technomic and Mintel  
  • NRA and Healthy Dining introduce Kids LiveWell program  
  • K-12 Meal Rule from USDA: More Whole Grains for National School Lunch & Breakfast Programs  
  • Whole Grain Hero, Doug Wordell, Director of Nutrition Services for Spokane School District talks about health and wellness initiatives.  
     
  Contests:  
     
 
• Uncle Ben's supports healthier food choices with their Begin with BenTM campaign. Learn more about these efforts.
 
• Calling all ACF members – enter for a chance to win $1K in the What's in Your Wok: A Fried Rice competition, sponsored by Riviana Foods
 
     

 

As First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! campaign passed its two-year anniversary, many K-12 operators, parents and local communities have taken steps to implement healthier food choices and lifestyle changes for kids. A longtime advocate for child nutrition, the USA Rice Federation supports and recognizes school foodservice professionals' efforts to serve wholesome, balanced meals every day. Meet the recent USA Rice "Healthy Rice Bowls Contest" winners, and learn how they successfully encourage their students to eat better with meals featuring U.S.-grown rice.

  
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