Chicago Sets Nutrition Standards for City Food Services

Mayor Brandon Johnson has signed an executive order establishing the first-ever nutrition standards for foods and beverages sold or served on city-owned property, a move aimed at expanding access to healthier meals across Chicago. The initiative, developed with the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), requires all city agencies to adopt mandatory purchasing guidelines, ensuring that foods served in schools, parks, and public facilities meet uniform definitions of “nutritious.” Until now, no citywide standard has applied.

“Ensuring every Chicagoan, no matter their zip code, has access to nutritious, affordable, and culturally appropriate food is critical to our work of building healthy, whole, and safe communities across this city,” Johnson said. “This order brings together the full force of government to make healthy eating a priority in our schools, at our parks, and all public spaces.”

The order arrives as federal changes threaten to reduce Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for thousands of residents, raising concerns about food security. By setting clear procurement standards, city officials say the policy will increase efficiency while ensuring residents have access to healthier, culturally relevant options, such as low-fat and low-sugar choices. CDPH Commissioner Olusimbo “Simbo” Ige underscored the importance of the measure: “This executive order is a step toward changing norms around food access and reducing contributions to food-related chronic diseases.”

The standards build on community engagement efforts led by the Food Equity Council’s Institutional Food Procurement Workgroup and reflect calls from advocates for more culturally responsive meals. The policy also aims to reduce consumption of sugary drinks and processed foods while encouraging partnerships with vendors that prioritize health-conscious products. Officials noted that healthier diets can help cut long-term healthcare costs by lowering risks of chronic illnesses, including diabetes and heart disease.

Not all programs will be affected; operations already subject to state or federal rules, such as certain shelters, are exempt under the new order. According to the Food Equity Council’s 2023 annual report, Chicago agencies and sister departments currently spend about $321.86 million annually on food services contracts, with the Department of Family and Support Services accounting for $13.3 million. The full text of Johnson’s executive order will be published on the City Clerk’s website.