CHICAGO (RFD NEWS) — Illinois Pork Producers are pushing to restore pork to menus in Chicago Public Schools, where more than 600 schools currently cannot serve pork at breakfast or lunch due to a wellness policy adopted in 2020. The restriction has raised concerns among producers who say pork is an affordable, nutrient-dense protein and an important market for the state’s pork industry.
Jennifer Tirey with the Illinois Pork Producers Association joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report to explain why the policy was put in place and how it continues to affect producers.
In her interview with RFD NEWS, Tirey said the association believes pork can meet school nutrition standards while providing students with essential nutrients like protein, zinc, and B vitamins. She also highlighted the significance of the Chicago Public Schools system as a major institutional buyer and expressed concern that similar wellness policies could spread to other districts if the issue is not addressed.
Tirey recently spoke before the Chicago Board of Education, outlining the role pork plays in balanced school meals and emphasizing the importance of science-based nutrition policy. While no immediate changes were made, she said the conversation is ongoing and producers remain committed to working with school officials.
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