“We are looking for foodservice directors who go the extra mile to provide great-tasting healthy food in school lunchrooms,” says PCRM nutrition director Tim Radak, R.D., Dr.P.H. “That means serving low-fat vegetarian entrees such as bean burritos or veggie burgers rather than the artery-clogging beef, chicken, and dairy products that dominate most school menus. A vegetarian diet rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals is the optimal diet for a growing child and helps foster healthy lifelong habits. The many advantages of plant-based diets include lower rates of heart disease, some forms of cancer, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity.”

The Golden Carrot Awards honor foodservice workers in both public and private schools. Awards go to the top programs that feature low-fat meals; encourage kids to eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; provide vegetarian or vegan entrees; promote cultural diversity; offer non-dairy beverages; and foster community relationships.

Parents, teachers, principals, fellow foodservice workers, and community members are encouraged to nominate professionals who make a difference in their schools. Deadline for nominations is September 15. An entry form—and a more detailed explanation of the award criteria—is available at www.HealthySchoolLunches.org.

Winners will be announced in time for National School Lunch Week, October 10-15. To read about last year’s winners, go to: http://www.pcrm.org/magazine/gm05winter/gm05winter01.html.

Founded in 1985, the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine is a nonprofit health organization that promotes preventive medicine, especially good nutrition. PCRM also conducts clinical research studies, opposes unethical human experimentation, and promotes alternatives to animal research.