CKC Good Food News

Many outside factors affect the operations and success of your food service program. Stay informed about the latest developments from CKC Good Food and the food service industry.

New hook and Rational roll-in combi ovens

More Meals, Same Footprint: Preparing for Growth

Follow these 5 simple tasks to close down your kitchen before the school year ends. Enjoy your summer and come back to a smoother startup in the fall.

MDE Fill the Form - more than meals

School Meals Are Free. Why Fill Out the Form?

Even though school meals are free for students in Minnesota, the Application for Educational Benefits is related to so much more than meals. It can help both the school and families access additional benefits, from funding educational programs to providing discounts, that benefit students. The impact is bigger than families may realize.

Cucumber slices

What’s On The Tray? Cucumbers

Test your food knowledge with our pop quiz on cucumbers. What's responsible for most of a cucumber's flavor?

Team Spotlight: Partnership Academy

Lulu helps keep students at Partnership Academy nourished year-round as a team of two, but during the summer months, she’s the heart of the kitchen. Using the Heat and Serve Onsite service model, she ensures students get fresh, nutritious meals. Meet Lulu!

Spinach

What’s On The Tray? Greens

Test your food knowledge with our pop quiz on greens. Which famous character is best known for loving a leafy green?

kids eating lunch, pizza day at St. Charles

2025-2026 By the Numbers

Millions meals. Hundreds of partners. One shared mission to nourish bodies, minds and cultures.

5 Closing Tasks School Kitchens Should Do for Summer

Follow these 5 simple tasks to close down your kitchen before the school year ends. Enjoy your summer and come back to a smoother startup in the fall.

Spoon with ground beef

What’s On The Tray? Beef

Test your food knowledge with our pop quiz on beef. How many pounds of beef does the average meat-eating American consume each year?

Chicken salad flatbread summer meal

Cool Meals for Hot Summer Days

Summer-inspired entrees, cool and crunchy sides, and grab-and-go convenience are all on the menu this summer at CKC Good Food. This year’s cold summer meal was designed to complement busy summer schedules and warm-weather activities.