This bill mandates that all public schools in New Jersey adhere to the nutrition standards established by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 2012 for the National School Lunch Program and federal School Breakfast Program. These standards require schools to reduce calories, fat, and sodium in meals while increasing the availability of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and nonfat milk. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining these stringent standards in light of recent USDA announcements that propose to relax certain nutrition requirements, such as those for grains and flavored milks.

The legislation aims to combat the rising rates of child and adolescent obesity, which currently stands at 14.8 percent in New Jersey. By ensuring compliance with the 2012 nutrition standards, the bill seeks to continue the progress made in reducing obesity rates among students and to promote healthier eating habits that can prevent chronic diseases. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.