Trends in K-12 Foodservice

See what’s hot and what you need to stay on trend.

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Trends in K-12 Foodservice

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Lunch Trends

"Even before the pandemic, K-12 operators were combining students’ favorite flavors to increase menu appeal. Things like chicken bacon ranch and honey BBQ can bring new life to an old standby like chicken tenders or pizza.”


CHEF ROBERTO ROMAN
Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot

Motown Philly Recipe
Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich

A whole-grain bun filled with tender strips of beef steak, roasted peppers and onions, and topped off with a creamy white cheese sauce. Served with crinkle cut fries and ketchup.
Vegetarian Sweet Potato Tacos Recipe
Vegetarian Sweet Potato Tacos

Looking for a veggie lunch option? How about tacos? Loaded with roasted sweet potatoes and corn, quinoa, and pico de gallo, these might just be a new lunchtime favorite.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaded Poutine Recipe
Chicken Bacon Loaded Lattice Fries

Crispy fries topped with creamy cheese sauce, tender diced chicken, bacon and a lite ranch drizzle.

Breakfast Trends

"Compared to previous generations, Gen Z students are more likely to identify as multi-cultural, meaning they will have more diverse food expectations. Consider adding more global flavors and dishes to keep your menu relevant”


CHEF MICHAEL ZELLER
Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot

Buenos Dias Breakfast Burrito
Buenos Dias Breakfast Burrito

Good Morning! What a wake-up call! Eggs, potatoes, spicy chorizo, and roasted peppers all rolled into one hearty breakfast meal.
Huevos Rancheros Recipe
Huevos Rancheros Breakfast for Lunch

Corn tortilla topped with scrambled eggs, black beans, shredded cheese, and flame-roasted sweet potatoes. Served with salsa on the side.

Grab-n-Go and Smart Snacks

"From Smart Snacks to supper and summer feeding programs, grab-n-go items are having to travel farther to reach students. More than ever, K-12 operators are seeking the food manufacturers’ help in identifying the best products and recipes that work ‘long distance.’”


CHEF ROBERTO ROMAN
Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot

guacamole celery carrots cup_112 copy Recipe
Veggie Grab and Go

On the go or as a quick snack, pair carrot and celery sticks with the great taste of our Simplot Harvest Fresh™ Avocados Western Guacamole. It'll get you through to your next meal.
Chicken and Potato Ranch Wrap
Chicken and Potato Ranch Wrap

What happens when you fill a wrap with ingredients that kids love? Lunch disappears and everybody is happy.
Fiesta Chopped Salad Recipe
Fiesta Chopped Salad

This colorful salad is fast and easy to make. Don't let the short ingredient list fool you, it's loaded with flavor.