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Many of you may remember that, beginning in 2021, we worked alongside a broad coalition to expand access to plant-based meals and non-dairy milk options in California schools.
Thanks to the combined efforts of school nutrition advocates, environmental organizations, school district food service leaders, and other coalition partners, the 2022 state budget included support for plant-based foods and non-dairy beverages within the Kitchen Infrastructure and Training—or KIT—Program. This funding helped schools modernize their kitchens, train food service staff, expand scratch cooking, and purchase healthier food and beverage options for students.
Although the plant-based provisions were removed from the 2024 and 2025 budgets, we are thrilled to announce that they have been restored in California’s 2026 state budget!
We extend our sincere thanks to Assemblymember Robert Garcia (D–Rancho Cucamonga), who served as the lead legislative advocate for restoring this important language.
“I thank the Governor and my fellow legislators for helping secure California students more school food options. The expanded dietary flexibility will allow students access to meals that meet their needs, and a child who is not worried about hunger is a child who will be able to learn,” said Assemblymember Garcia.
This is an important step toward ensuring that every California student has access to nutritious, inclusive meals that meet their dietary needs.
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