Michelle Obama: school meal preparers have more influence over what kids eat than parents

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First lady talks obesity with school nutritionists

WASHINGTON — First lady Michelle Obama says the people who prepare meals for schools have more influence over what kids eat than parents do.

She said that’s because kids who participate in school meal programs eat about half their daily calories at school.

Some 31 million kids participate in school-based lunch and breakfast programs.

The first lady addressed the School Nutrition Association members Monday at their annual meeting in Washington. The organization is a partner in Mrs. Obama’s new campaign to tackle the problem of childhood obesity.

Statistics say one in three kids in the U.S. is either overweight or obese.