Better Nutrition for School Children Act of 2004

The Better Nutrition for School Children Act of 2004 proposed expanding the federal government's authority to regulate all foods sold on school grounds during the school day. It aimed to update nutritional standards for school breakfasts and lunches based on modern nutritional science while restricting the sale of "competitive foods," such as soda and candy, in vending machines and school stores.

If enacted, this bill would have ensured that all food available to students during school hours met specific health criteria, regardless of whether it was part of the official cafeteria meal program. The legislation was designed to reduce student access to foods with minimal nutritional value and encourage healthier eating habits throughout the entire school campus.