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SAN DIEGO – Two menu items containing beef have been removed from the menu at San Diego’s schools, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture begins an investigation into packing plants that provide beef to schools around the nation.
The change is effective February 1, following the USDA’s order on January 31.
“We’re committed to the healthiest and safest meals for our students,” said Gary Petill, food services director. “We’ve been monitoring this situation since it broke in the news media and have mobilized our staff to come up with alternative, healthy choices for the 85,000 San Diegans who enjoy our food every day.”
Late Thursday afternoon, the USDA put an administrative hold on commodity beef products while its investigation of Westland Meats continues. The hold impacts only two of the dozens of entrees we serve to students. Not all beef products were affected.Both the items placed on hold have been removed from student menus and replaced with other entrees.
Other beef products, such as grilled hamburgers at middle and high schools, come from a different supplier and are not affected. They will continue to be served.
Parents with questions about their student’s menu options should visit the district’s Food Services Department web site at www.sandi.net/food/.
