New State Law Bans Certain Ingredients in School Meals
New State Law Bans Certain Ingredients in School Meals
Starting in the 2026-27 school year, Texas schools participating in the National School Lunch Program will see menus free from select additives, artificial dyes and other identified ingredients. Senate Bill 314 was passed by the Texas Legislature in 2025 and takes effect this school year.
While the district and its student nutrition provider, Aramark, had already avoided many of the banned ingredients, the district is now making sure they are removed from our menus. As a result, some breakfast and lunch items served in Sherman ISD schools may look different when classes resume in August.
While the appearance of some menu items may change, the foods will continue to meet quality and nutrition standards. The changes are an important step toward simpler, more wholesome foods everyone can feel good about.
What's Changing?
| Category | Ingredients Removed | What It Is | Where It's Found | What You May Notice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dough Conditioners & Processing Aids | Azodicarbonamide, Potassium Bromate | Helps improve bread texture and shelf life | Buns, rolls, breads | Bread may look less uniform and have slight texture differences |
| Preservatives & Stabilizers | BHA, Propylparaben | Helps extend shelf life | Packaged snacks, baked goods, some oils | Simpler ingredient lists and more freshly prepared foods |
| Beverage & Texture Additives | Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) | Keeps citrus flavoring mixed in drinks | Some flavored drinks | Drinks may look less cloudy or not as evenly mixed |
| Color & Appearance Additives | Titanium Dioxide, Caramel Color | Adds or deepens color in foods and drinks | Sauces, baked goods, beverages, syrups | Foods and drinks may appear lighter or less consistently colored |
| Artificial Food Dyes | Blue 1, Blue 2, Citrus Red 3, Green 3, Orange B, Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6 | Adds vibrant color to foods | Drinks, desserts, snacks, cereals, condiments | Colors may appear softer and more natural, with slight variation |
Cafeteria Menus
Parents and students can always find breakfast and lunch menus as they become available by visiting the district and campus websites or directly via the Nutrislice website or mobile app.
Get the Nutrislice menu app on the App Store
Get the Nutrislice menu app on Google Play
Meal Payments
The Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) provides free breakfast and lunch for all students in Sherman ISD, regardless of household income. Students who take or request snacks, additional entrees, or extra milk, will be charged for those items. Payments can be made online or by sending cash or check to school. To add funds to your child's cafeteria account, please visit MySchoolBucks.com.