When Students Call the Shots: Kids Food Critics in School Lunch Taste Test

Would you let kids decide what’s for lunch? One Utah school district did—and the results are both heartwarming and hilarious.

In a bold and tasty experiment, students in Utah were invited to become official food critics during a school lunch taste test. The district served up several new menu options and handed out ballots to students, who rated each dish based on taste, texture, and whether they’d eat it again. From teriyaki chicken to broccoli salad, kids didn’t hold back!

The goal? To better tailor school meals to what students actually enjoy—while still meeting nutritional guidelines. District officials said it's part of a growing effort to involve students in decisions that impact their daily lives, even in the cafeteria.

And guess what? The kids loved being heard. “I feel important,” one student said. “It’s nice to know our opinions matter.”

The taste test not only helped the school gather feedback—it gave students a sense of ownership and sparked valuable conversations about healthy eating, food waste, and even peer influence.

It’s a small step toward better school lunches and an even bigger leap for student engagement.

Because when kids feel heard, they’re more likely to eat their veggies—even if it comes with a side of critique.