In conclusion, this study is the first study to quantify the average nutrients consumed and, in parallel, the nutrients served but discarded from school lunches in a middle school population. It was found that the insufficient amount of calories, fiber, and vitamins and minerals consumed at school by this vulnerable, low-income population warrants serious attention. This study suggests that substantial quantities of foods are discarded at lunch and their associated costs are large. This study is also the first to document that most foods served to middle school students in an urban low-income setting are not valid proxies for foods consumed. Programs, like the ChI, that focus on the palatability of school meals, show promise to improve school meal consumption and the decrease the costs associated with waste. Overall, the results suggest that schools require additional funding for higher quality foods and for additional cafeteria staff training and support to produce more palatable meals and thus reduce food waste among students.