Florida “Seafood to Schools” Program
Background Information
Nutritional needs can vary with each stage in life. Fulfilling those needs can contribute greatly to achieving an optimal quality of life. It is important that young bodies have proper nutrition for growth and development. Including seafood in a young person’s diet early sets the stage for good eating habits and a healthy future. Seafood is a good source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Compared to other meats, seafood is low in calories and cholesterol. Good eating habits, with a diet which includes Florida seafood, can begin in the school.
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services surveyed the state’s 67 school districts to determine demand for Florida seafood products in elementary, middle and high schools. Feedback suggests there are opportunities for Florida seafood suppliers to provide products for Florida schools.
Do you currently serve fresh or
frozen seafood in your cafeteria? |
| Answer |
Percent |
| Yes |
60 |
| No |
40 |
For the schools who do serve seafood:
| What type of seafood do you serve? |
| Type |
Percent |
| Tuna |
65 |
| Shirmp |
55 |
| Catfish |
40 |
| Tilapia |
10 |
| Flounder |
10 |
| Processed Fish |
42 |
| Are any of the selected types of seafood noted above not commercially purchased but are donated USDA foods? |
| Answer |
Percent |
| Yes |
39 |
| No |
61 |
| USDA-Donated Foods |
| Type |
Percent |
| Catfish |
73 |
| Tuna |
45 |
What type of seafood do
you serve the most? |
| Type |
Percent |
| Processed Fish |
46 |
| Shrimp |
27 |
| Pllock |
15 |
| Tuna |
8 |
| Cod |
4 |
| What is the portion size? |
| Portion Size |
Percent |
| Two Ounces |
21 |
| Three Ounces |
41 |
| Four Ounces |
28 |
| What is the price per portion? |
| Portion Price |
Price |
| Range |
$0.36 - $0.54 |
| Average |
$0.43 |
How is this seafood
processed or packaged? |
| Type |
Percent |
| Frozen |
90 |
| Pre-Cooked |
31 |
| Canned |
3 |
| Fresh |
0 |
How do you currently
prepare this seafood? |
| Method |
Percent |
| Baked |
90 |
| Fried |
10 |
| In Salad (Tuna) |
10 |
| Broiled |
3 |
For schools that currently do not serve seafood:
| Are you interested in serving seafood? |
| Answer |
Percent |
| Yes |
35 |
| No |
43 |
| Maybe |
22 |
What are the reasons you
do not serve seafood? |
| Answer |
Percent |
| Cost |
77 |
| Students won't eat it |
35 |
| Preparation Issues |
29 |
| Storage Issues |
18 |
For schools that do not serve seafood but are interested in serving seafood items:
What types of seafood are
you interested in serving? |
| Answer |
Percent |
| Shrimp |
86 |
| Fish |
86 |
| Clams |
14 |
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