ALEXANDRIA, Va., May 2, 2001 (PRIMEZONE) -- When does Cinco de Mayo mean more than the Fifth of May? When it's a chance to introduce students to a Mexican holiday that commemorates a single historic victory of a small, ill-equipped Mexican army. In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, school cafeterias across the country will be filled with students exploring the history and origins of some authentic Mexican foods.
"Cinco de Mayo is by far one of our students' most favorite celebrations," said Marilyn Hurt, president of the American School Food Service Association (ASFSA). "In many cafeterias, they get to sample some Mexican foods that they may not find in a Mexican or Tex-Mex restaurant in the United States."
The tacos, burritos and salsas that are served in the United States have been adapted to meet the food preferences and tastes of Americans. While some of these foods are still served in Mexico, the U.S. variety is different from the traditional dishes. One of the most recent Mexican-influenced dishes, a favorite of many school children, is "the wrap" -- a tortilla filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, cheeses and beans.
Any time food is incorporated into a lesson, children take notice, which is why they love Cinco de Mayo. Teachers and school foodservice employees can easily incorporate a history lesson into a culinary one. For additional information on Cinco de Mayo, Mexican recipes and some fun activities, go to ASFSA's Child Nutrition e-Source at www.asfsa.org.
ASFSA is a national, non-profit professional organization representing more than 55,000 members who provide high-quality, low-cost meals to students across the country. Founded in 1946, ASFSA is the only association devoted exclusively to protecting and enhancing children's health and well-being through school meals and sound nutrition education.
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CONTACT: American School Food Service Association
Dana Clerkin
(800) 877-8822. ext. 149