Hold the mystery meat: Military food menus to get upgrades
Hold the mystery meat: Military bases soon could be serving up more fruits, vegetables and low-fat dishes -- under the first program in 20 years to improve nutrition standards across the military services, The Associated Press reports.
It seems the measure could not only trim the fat, but the Defense Department's budget as well.
While the Pentagon spends an estimated $4.5 billion a year on food services, it tallies upwards of $1.1 billion a year on medical care related to excess weight and obesity, the AP reported.
Under the Military Health System's new obesity and nutrition awareness campaign, led by first lady Michelle Obama, menus at some 1,100 military dining halls will include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lower-fat entrees.
The new program will expect each of the armed services to update menu standards for the first time in two decades and ensure that healthier food choices are available, the AP reported in a story about upgrades to military dining facilities.
