Vermont and New York rank among the top states nationwide for nutritional access in schools, according to the 2026 State of School Lunch Report. The report evaluates state programs based on meal options, free meal policies, and partnerships with local businesses to supply food.
Vermont Claims Top Spot Through Act 64 Universal Free Meals
Vermont secured the highest ranking in the country with a score of 83 points in the 2026 State of School Lunch Report. Food advocates attribute this placement to Act 64, a state policy that guarantees free universal meals for all students.
Morgan Crossman, executive director of Building Bright Futures, emphasized the long-term impact of the policy on student development. “When we think about the importance of food and nutrition for a child to well-being, it’s supporting the foundation of brain development and healthy growth over time, especially in the early childhood period,” Crossman said according to the report. She added that well-fed children are better equipped to focus, participate, and learn in the classroom.
Did You Know?
States are scored across multiple nutritional indicators, including breakfast and lunch program access, free meal legislation, and the utilization of locally sourced farm-to-school ingredients.
New York Secures Third Place with Statewide Universal Meal Policy
New York ranks third overall nationwide in the 2026 school nutrition assessment. The state’s high ranking follows the enactment of a policy last year that provides free universal meals for students across the entire state.
While leading states expand access universally, other states maintain different frameworks. New Hampshire ranks 51st in the national evaluation, offering reduced and free meal options strictly on an as-needed basis in alignment with federal Department of Education policy. NBC5 reached out to both the New York and New Hampshire Departments of Education for comment but did not receive a response.
Frequently Asked Questions
What criteria are used to rank states in the State of School Lunch Report?
States are scored on indicators such as breakfast and lunch program access, free meal policies, and whether schools utilize locally sourced food from area businesses.
Why does Vermont rank first in school nutrition?
Vermont earned 83 points to top the list, a ranking food advocates connect to Act 64, which provides free universal meals to students.
How does New York approach school meals?
New York ranks third nationwide after enacting a policy last year that offers free universal meals to students across the state.
How does New Hampshire structure its school meal program?
New Hampshire ranks 51st, providing free and reduced-price meals on an as-needed basis in line with federal Department of Education guidelines.
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