Hawaii public schools serve up Okinawan sweet potato for lunch

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Okinawan sweet potato was on the menu at 91 public schools in Hawaii this month.

It’s an effort to get homegrown ingredients into cafeterias across the state.

Hilo Union School was one of dozens serving up steamed uala alongside kalua pork sandwiches and coleslaw.

The farm-to-school initiative aims to improve students’ health, support farmers, and enhance food sustainability.

“The flavor, it’s always been my favorite part,” said sixth-grader Isabella-Marie Wells. “I always know that it has a lot of nutrition in it, so I know it’s really good for me.”

“It tastes like a normal potato, but it’s sweeter,” said first-grader Jaxon TongaBennette-Drayer, after taking his first bite.

Next school year, students will see uala mash on their lunch menus, and uala yogurt bowls on their breakfast menus.