Top Moves for Back to School 2026-2027
Plan for a Fresh Start
The end of summer marks a fresh start for school dining programs.
This academic year promises more changes than ever, with new School Nutrition Standards potentially going into effect when cafeterias are busiest, and college students expecting food that’s as engaging and customized as their coursework. Maybe even with a little robot food delivery on the side.
As the bid season wraps up and menus are finalized, polish off those strategic goals. Review vendor contracts well ahead of the Dec-Mar bid cycle. Keep an eye on healthy dining choices that are sure to do well by students and any impending regulations.
And most importantly, take a moment to center on the heart of your mission: nourishing students and helping them grow.
Trends to Track
For K-12
As School Nutrition Standards evolve – with both scheduled and potential changes on the horizon – be prepared for:
- Limits on added sugars
- Limits on certain dyes and additives
- More 100% whole grains
SunButter® helps foodservice directors stay ahead of regulations with:
- Only 3g added sugar per serving, similar to creamy peanut butter
- Good source of fiber
- 6-7g protein per serving
- Heart healthy fats
- 12+ micronutrients
For College & University
College & University dining is being revamped to include:
- More allergy-friendly options
- Street food stations
- Global build-your-own stations
- Protein- and fiber-rich menus
- Chef interaction and participation
- Themed meals that get students involved
SunButter® is available in convenient cups that help directors meet all the growing serving trends, including extended serving hours, grab & go breakfast, and scatter-style stations. No-stir tubs make it simple to incorporate something nutritious into global dishes.
As a school foodservice director, you’re juggling multiple considerations. Luckily some decisions are easy, like swapping foods with risky allergens and health concerns for nut-free, nutrient-rich, delicious SunButter®.
Back to School Checklist
New School Year, New Engagement
- Plan inclusive welcome week and back-to-school specials
- Organize a back-to-school food fair with inclusivity themed components
- Offer dietary accommodation sessions for students with food allergies and/or preferences
- Conduct a student-led culinary contest tied to allergy awareness: Create the next SunButter® Breakfast Pizza
Showcase Power Menus
- Highlight plant-based ingredients that are rich in micronutrients, fiber, and protein
- Add more allergy-friendly stations that meet a diverse range of dietary needs
- Promote new menu items at orientation days and in newsletters
- Highlight sustainable dining initiatives such as waste reduction and USA-made sourcing
Check Equipment and Inventory
- Conduct kitchen simulations for efficiency optimization
- Test and inspect kitchen equipment
- Finalize food orders and stock inventory for the first weeks
Encourage Staff Readiness
- Train staff on portion control, meal presentation, and speed-of-service
- Cover best practices and safety protocols for food allergen management
- Review and adjust staff scheduling for efficiency
- Conduct a kickoff meeting with stakeholders
Get the NEW Annual Planning Guide
Sound like a lot? SunButter® is here to help.
Our 2026-2027 planner for K-12 and C&U leaders will help you navigate the most pressing priorities in the year ahead. Your guide includes:
- Menu planning tips
- Budget prompts
- Trends in student marketing
- LTO calendar
- Useful tools, like a press release template
Print it out, hang it on the wall, and keep it handy!
