As part of the "Nourishing Families by Nourishing Schools" initiative by Alliance for a Healthier Generation and Del Monte Foods, students at Pittsburgh Minadeo PreK-5 took part in a unique taste-testing session led by Chef Missy, the district's chef. This event featured Del Monte canned sliced pears aimed at promoting children's nutrition and food accessibility. In early March, volunteers from Del Monte Foods’ Pittsburgh team, along with those from UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh and Adagio Health, facilitated the tasting and gathered valuable feedback from the students. The aim is to incorporate this recipe into the school district's menu to benefit all students.
“What better way than to show children that fruit and veggies are good for you, but taste really good too. So that’s what’s really exciting about volunteering to support the student taste test,” said John Fusco, Senior Director Commercial Operations at Del Monte Foods.
Efforts such as these support schools in becoming eligible for acknowledgment as one of America’s Healthiest Schools, an annual award program by Healthier Generation. This program celebrates schools for their significant contributions to enhancing the health and wellness of students, faculty, and families. Del Monte Foods takes pride in sponsoring the Improving Nutrition & Food Access category, which is in line with its dedication to promoting the health of young people and communities across the country.
“Healthy choices in the cafeteria support success in and out of the classroom. Connecting students, staff and families to nutrition resources from partners like Del Monte Foods helps make it happen,” said Kathy Higgins, Chief Executive Officer, Alliance for a Healthier Generation.
Having received the America's Healthiest Schools award in the "Supporting School Health Services" category in 2023, Pittsburgh Minadeo PreK-5 is striving to attain recognition in the "Improving Nutrition and Food Access" category this year.
America's Healthiest Schools award application is open through April 16.
Click here to learn more.