One area of sustainability that the Austin ISD Food Service Department has focused on in the last two years is reducing the impact of single-use containers. To meet our goals of reducing use of 2 oz. sauce cups, portion cups and bowls, we increased our self service options. We got a grant through the City of Austin and used the funds to purchase tongs, serving containers, and squeeze bottles with labels so students can place side dishes and condiments directly onto their tray rather then picking up pre-portioned food in disposable containers. Not only has this initiative reduced trash, it has improved our finances (fewer containers to buy, stock and deliver to each site) and it has allowed us to better use our labor hours. Instead of paying someone to cup of ketchup in single serve cups for an hour, we can now have them work on more meaningful food preparation like scratch cooking, and better customer service.