AVFCA Commentary: S 5084, introduced by Sen. Cory Booker, seeks to eliminate harmful toxins from school meals and expand support for regenerative farmers. This bill addresses serious health concerns regarding toxic substances in food served to children, as highlighted by a recent study showing alarming levels of contaminants in school lunches. In a 2022 study, an advocacy group tested 43 public school lunches across 15 states. The results found 95% of the items contained detectable levels of glyphosate, a carcinogenic pesticide linked to various health issues, including kidney and liver damage, hormonal disruption, and gut problems. 74% of samples contained at least one additional pesticide. 100% of tested lunches showed the presence of heavy metals. The introduction of the Safe School Meals Act marks a significant step forward in ensuring that school lunches provide safe and nutritious food for children. By prioritizing food safety and supporting sustainable agricultural practices, this legislation aims to improve the health and well-being of students across the nation. The bill aims to create new market opportunities for organic and regenerative farmers, who have long provided safe, nutrient-dense food. It will also make certification for small producers and manufacturers to sell into the school meal program free of charge and lift the cap on National Organic Cost Share Certification to cover up to 100% of certification costs. The Safe School Meals Act has received support from a diverse range of organizations, including the American Federation of Teachers and the Organic Farmers Association, indicating a widespread recognition of the need for safer school meals.