Sodexo “Schools” Kids with Mushroom-Filled Favorite for Healthy Lunch

Apr 13, 2016 4:35 PM ET
Sodexo & Mushroom Council: Health Benefits of Blend Burger in K-12 Schools

GAITHERSBURG, Md., April 13, 2016 /3BL Media/ — Sodexo, world leader in Quality of Life Services and student nutrition and facilities management provider to more than 400 K-12 school districts nationwide, is always looking for new ways to get students to eat more vegetables with their school lunch. Through a partnership with the Mushroom Council, the company’s latest innovation is the introduction of The Blend burger, which combines nutrient-packed mushrooms with beef. By blending these ingredients, Sodexo can deliver a delicious kid favorite that cuts calories and fat at more than 250 participating school districts.

Recent studies tell us that kids are taking more fresh fruits and vegetable at school meals, but not necessarily eating them. Sodexo’s commitment to enhance student well-being as well as its focus on sustainability means seeking innovative solutions to encourage students to eat more fruits and vegetables—not just put them on their plate to throw away later.

“We are extremely impressed with Sodexo’s commitment to serving their students healthier burgers while featuring produce at the center of the plate,” said Mushroom Council President Bart Minor.

Kid Tested, Parent Approved

Sodexo test piloted The Blend burger with students before the nationwide roll-out. The results: 85% of students preferred them over the previous burger. In fact, most students were either happy with the change or didn’t even notice it. Parents were thrilled with the option of a healthier, natural burger for their kids.

Sodexo and the Mushroom Council are both partners in the Partnership for Healthier America, the organization devoted to working with the private sector to ensure the health of our nation’s youth.

“Sodexo’s work with the Mushroom Council which culminated in the introduction of the Blend burger at more than 250 school districts nationally is a fantastic example of how we can leverage the size and scope of our business and our partnerships to improve student health and wellness while also giving them the energy they need to succeed in the classroom,” said Steve Cox, vice president, public relations, Sodexo.

Sodexo delivers more than 100 services across North America that enhance organizational performance, contribute to local communities and improve quality of life. The global Fortune 500 company is a leader in delivering sustainable, integrated facilities management and foodservice operations.

Learn more about the company at its corporate blog, Sodexo Insights