The Arkansas Plate Initiative connects Arkansas producers with schools to provide nutritious, locally sourced meals made from Arkansas-grown commodities. By integrating the state’s Nutrition Programs, farm to school initiatives, and agricultural organizations, the pilot strengthens the local food supply chain, increases healthy food access, and showcases the value of Arkansas agriculture in every school cafeteria.
Purpose and Goals
The Arkansas Plate Pilot Program encourages schools to serve more Arkansas-grown foods by aligning procurement, menu planning, and education across Nutrition Services programs.
The program aims to:
- Increase the percentage of Arkansas-grown foods on student plates.
- Strengthen local food supply chains by connecting agricultural producers and processors to schools.
- Increase student understanding of Arkansas agriculture and nutrition.
Pilot Structure
Participating Entities
Arkansas Department of Agriculture, Nutrition Services – Program management, branding, producer recruitment, and evaluation.
Participating School Districts (5 pilots) – Implement Arkansas Plate menu items, promote in cafeterias, and collect data.
Arkansas Plate Menu Model
Each pilot school will feature one Arkansas Plate meal per month, highlighting locally grown and produced ingredients.
| Month | Featured Commodities | Example Meal |
| August | Rice, Poultry, Peppers | Chicken & rice bowl with peppers |
| September | Catfish, Sweet Potatoes | Catfish nuggets and sweet potato fries |
| October | Beef, Soybeans, Apples | Beef stir fry with edamame, side of apples |
| November | Corn, Wheat, Sweet Potatoes | Cornbread, whole wheat rolls, sweet potato pie |
| December | Dairy, Greens | Cheese grits with collard greens |
| January | Pork, Specialty Vegetables | Pulled pork sliders with local slaw |
| February | Rice, Winter Squash | Arkansas fried rice with squash medley |
| March | Catfish, Greens | Blackened Catfish with greens |
| April | Poultry, Lettuce | Chicken salad with crisp local lettuce |
| May | Strawberries, Beef | Beef tacos with fresh strawberry salsa |
Resources
Program Contact: Leslee Tell
Email: [email protected]