School breakfasts should all offer a protein food, as recommended by the National Academies of Sciences, UEP said in comments filed with the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS).

FNS is preparing to write new regulations that will set nutrition standards for school lunches, breakfasts and snacks. In its comments, UEP reminded the agency that several years ago, the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine recommended that school breakfasts should be required to offer a protein food such as meat or eggs. Protein foods already must be offered in school lunches.

Schools may offer eggs or other protein foods at breakfast, and many do, but a requirement would ensure that all students have the opportunity to get protein with their breakfast, regardless of where they live.

Studies have shown that a protein-rich breakfast keeps students feeling well-nourished and delays feelings of hunger, which is potentially beneficial for academic performance and student behavior.