The federal government funds a program through the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) called the "National School Lunch Program," which provides free or reduced-cost lunches to schools that meet the requirements. Public or non-profit private schools are provided with meals and independent schools are eligible for a portion of the meals from the USDA. The schools taking part in the program are required to offer a free or reduced-cost lunch program to the students.
Preferred Meal Systems Inc. focuses on nutritional values and serving foods that have 0g trans fats and no high-fructose corn syrup or sodium. Their meals include fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grain bread products. They are inspected daily by the USDA and the food is prepared by classically trained chefs. They package their services into one fixed cost, but their meals are prepackaged, ready to thaw, cook and serve to the students.
U.S. Foodservice formed in 2007 and has grown to supply elementary schools and other facilities around the country. They use high-grade Angus beef and, according to their website, they are "...the first broadline distributor to offer certified sustainable wild-caught and farm-raised seafood". They also provide biodegradable bags and plates which are made from sugar cane to reduce landfill waste.
Revolution Foods was founded in 2006, and as of 2008, serving over 100 different schools in the United States. They are concerned about providing high quality healthy meals to students and nutritional education programs to get kids into the right eating habits at a young age. They encourage feedback from the students about which meals they like, so they can send them more of their favorites. According the website, "Rev Foods' meals are healthy, tasty, home-made, affordable and reimbursable."