How Today’s Top Food Trends Are Shaping K–12 Student Dining

A young student smiling while eating a wrap-style meal, representing healthy and enjoyable school dining.

As student tastes evolve, so does the landscape of school dining. Today’s learners are more curious, health-conscious, and globally inspired than ever — and their expectations are reshaping what’s served in cafeterias. From the influence of social media to the rising demand for fresh, functional, and internationally inspired meals, these trends reflect a new era of food awareness among young diners.

 

Explore six key trends shaping K-12 dining today and see how Sodexo meets them with meals and experiences that inspire learning and support student wellness.    

Download the infographic

  • Schools

    Debunking 4 Myths About Plant-Based Foods in Schools

    Plant-based school lunch option with a black bean burger and sweet potato fries on a plate.
    Read

  • Schools

    The Math–Nutrition Connection: 5 Ways Healthy School Meals Add Up to Better Academic Performance

    A student sitting at a desk in a classroom while a teacher and another student work on math equations at the chalkboard in the background.
    Read

  • Schools

    From Tradition to Table: How Inclusive School Menus Celebrate Culture and Community

    Close-up shot of a NDN taco, a traditional Native American frybread topped with beans, cheese, lettuce and tomato.
    Read

  • Schools

    How Sodexo Brought Culture, Community and Scratch-Made Meals to the Cafeteria

    Chef in kitchen with black gloves, posing beside fresh vegetables and plated dishes on counter.
    Read