The Academy's Curie Dining Hall

“Nutrition” is derived from the word “nourish” from the

Latin nutrire, meaning to feed, nurse, support and preserve.

Essentially, nutrition refers to the way the body makes use of food.

This year has brought new and exciting changes to your NYMA menu. We would like to share with everyone our goals to exceed the new USDA food regulations for food served in schools, as out lined by the 2012 Healthy Schools Summit, April 4, 2012.

The new USDA initiatives are exciting as well as challenging. We all know how important it is that food tastes good. Studies are showing that today’s young people are placing a higher importance on the nutritional value of the food they are eating. We also know that every day our Cadets are becoming more health conscious young adults. There is proof of this first hand, in motivated cadets like Sabrina Charles and others like her who are inspiring their fellow Corpsmen and the Dining Hall with requests for healthier options.

Since January more vigorous steps toward our goals have included replacing over 70 % of grain products with whole grains; whole wheat breads and pastas, as well as brown rice and wild rice blends. Barley and novelty grains like Quinoa has challenged their palates as well.

Elimination of trans fat through alternative cooking methods has been a gradual transition.

Providing a non red meat option is a priority.

We have always provided low fat (2%) regular milk option and a non-fat (< 1%) chocolate option.

A personal goal of mine is to continue to challenge their palates by introducing new foods and flavors and at the same time promoting growth and tolerance by celebrating the cultural diversity of our NYMA population.

Our goal has always been to provide nutrition that supports our Cadets’ Health and Well- Being and by facilitating healthy choices and curbing habits through education and awareness we can enhance the development of healthy eating that lasts a lifetime.

It is an honor and a pleasure to serve you and any suggestions or reflections are welcome and appreciated.

Sincerely,

Laura Hoffenberg

Dining Facility Coordinator

New York Military Academy

(845) 534-3710 X 4248      

lhoffenberg@nyma.org

   Click here for this week's Dining Hall Menu 

Vegetarian options are available at each meal.