Q: Can we reuse plastic
flatware?
A: Maybe! Plastic tableware can be reused
after going through the utensil washing/sanitizing process if it is one of the
many higher quality (durable) types. This would exclude the flimsy white
single service quality you often see at fast food establishments. There are
no identifying marks on the utensils to determine what can be reused. The
length of reuse varies by brand. Essentially, if it is a durable plastic
utensil, the utensil may be reprocessed and reused until the item is broken,
cracked, or has lost the smooth cleanable finish.
Q: Is it acceptable to serve potato chips?
A: If potato chips are served with a meal, they
are considered an “extra” which means they do not contribute to the meal
pattern. While it is acceptable to occasionally offer potato chips, it is
highly recommended that schools offer instead a grain-based chip such as corn
chips or pretzels. Grain-based chips can be counted in the grains/bread
requirement for the week. Potato chips are also high in fat and sodium; two
nutrients that need to be limited in school meals.
