Average price: $1.50
Price adjusted for inflation: $6.12
School lunches underwent significant changes during the '80s, influenced by broader societal shifts and government policies. This decade saw a continued emphasis on convenience and speed, with an increase in the availability of prepackaged and processed foods in school cafeterias. Popular items included chicken nuggets, french fries, and pizza pockets.
Still, the push and pull of nutrition remained relevant, leading to efforts to provide healthier options such as salads, whole grains, and fruit. In terms of cost, school lunches in the 1980s were still relatively affordable, typically costing around a dollar or slightly more. Government programs continued to provide free or reduced-price lunches to low-income families.
