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.

School Lunch Hero Day - team in hero costumes

7 Celebration Ideas for School Lunch Hero Day

Every day, but especially on May 1, 2026 - School Lunch Hero Day - CKC Good Food celebrates the everyday champions in the front lines of school meals. They wear aprons instead of capes, but show up like heroes with quiet superpowers that go beyond serving nutritious meals every day.

stack of cardboard boxes for recycling

Environmentally Sustainable Food Service in Action

Feeding students at scale each day means managing more than just meals. It also means managing waste, recyclable materials and miles on the road. At CKC Good Food, environmental sustainability is woven into our processes and systems. Because reducing costs and improving efficiency ultimately make us a stronger partner to our clients and the communities we serve.

Student from Twin Cities International participating in spring taste test event

RSVP for Our Spring Taste Test Event

We encourage you to assemble a group of those you serve, family members and board members to come to our commissary for our spring taste tests and tours!

Chicken drumsticks

What’s On The Tray? Poultry

There’s no question that poultry is packed with protein and other nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins our bodies need. But, we need to settle this… What’s the best poultry comfort food?

Child picking up tray with USDA-compliant pizza at St. Charles

Inside School Pizza

Is school pizza the same as takeout pizza? The answer may surprise you. Unlike what you’d get for takeout, pizza served in school meal programs must meet USDA nutrition standards from whole-grain crust requirements to limits on sodium and fat. Read on to learn what’s behind the slice.

Potatotes

What’s On The Tray? Potatoes

Test your food knowledge with our pop quiz this February. Which of these potato facts is true?

NSBW 2026 The Quest for School Breakfast

The Quest for School Breakfast

Breakfast matters and for National School Breakfast Week 2026, we are celebrating the food service professionals who provide students with nourishing food that sets the tone for the entire school day. With a full breakfast, they ready to start their daily quests and seize the day.

Team at Cologne Academy and STARS Early Learning Academy, Kelsey and Lily

Team Spotlight: Cologne Academy

This Team Spotlight features the dedicated duo supporting students at Cologne Academy and it's partner site, STARS Early Learning Academy. Operating out of the same kitchen with full onsite operations, Kelsey and Lily work side by side to fuel learners from pre-K through eight grade. Meet the team behind the meals!

Heart over Minnesota graphic. Message of support.

Message of Support from Our CEO

During this difficult time, CKC Good Food is standing with you and committed to upholding our values. Our CEO, Nancy Close, shares this message to our client partners and community.