Juvenile Services Education Program (JSEP) Menus

Food of the Month

The Department of Juvenile Services' Food and Nutritional Services team assist in learning about nutrition through various traditions such as posters, monthly food menu choices, and other fun activities. We incorporate menu selections and food choices into holidays, celebrations, and special occasions, such as National School Breakfast Week, National School Lunch Week, and National Nutrition Month. Each month, the program focuses on a Food of the Month to serve in the department's residential facility cafeterias. The purpose of the Food of the Month promotion is to highlight the nutritional benefits of healthy eating, wellness, and making health conscious food choices in an adolescent's diet. This food item is chosen based on consideration of the diverse ethnicities, cultures, and the correlation to the traditions of various backgrounds.

Learn more about the Maryland State Department of Education's School Breakfast Program (SBP) and check out the SBP Fact Sheet from USDA, which provides an overview of the program, eligibility details, nutrition requirements, and other information.

Maryland's Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides nutritious meals and snacks to low-income children (ages 18 and under) during June, July, and August when school is not in session. For more information visit the Maryland Public Schools website to find a site near you.

November's Food of the Month is Corn!

multicolor corn on the cob

Corn…this popular staple in the American diet actually has a few identities. Did you know it is a vegetable, whole grain, and a fruit? The corn you eat on the cob is considered a vegetable, while the kernel itself (where popcorn comes from) is considered a whole grain. Interestingly, because popcorn comes from the seed of the plant, it is also considered a fruit!

Most of us are familiar with yellow corn, but it can also come in red orange, purple, blue, white, and black. The American diet tends to be higher in refined corn products such as tortillas/tortilla chips, cornmeal, and corn syrup which are lower in nutrients; however, whole grain corn is a healthy cereal grain with fiber, protein, and vitamins and minerals. Popcorn is a highly popular snack and is one of the few whole grains consumed on its own. Popping it in oil and drenched in salty buttery topping negates a lot of the health benefits of popcorn. Air popping it is an excellent way to retain the nutritional benefits. Fresh on the cob, crunchy as a snack, or baked into a cornbread, be sure to experiment with this diverse food and try it with a whole new appreciation.