It’s possible that a chef from another country, albeit a famous one, can turn around the American school lunch program and get parents, teachers, administrators, and government personnel to understand the dire state of the food world in this country. Healthy food topics abound and First Lady Michelle Obama has certainly become the serious face for eating and living lives as she continues to work with young people to get them focused on the importance of a healthy lifestyle. It is possible that Jamie Oliver’s work may become a turning point for those who have ignored the crisis. We cannot throw out his efforts; we need his help.

One word he continually uses is “processed foods.” He’s amazed at how little students know about fresh foods and even what some of those foods look like. In his tour of schools and work with students and families, he continues to see the processed pattern of consumption. Or the simple translation: No one knows for sure what is in those foods as opposed to eating from scratch cooking. Yes, it is a daunting task to ask lunch personnel to make food for 1,000 individuals from scratch on a daily basis, but he is unwavering in his mission. He believes this strategy will save lives and reduce early, young deaths from causes linked to obesity.

His website has become a menu and recipe haven. No longer can anyone say they have no idea how to prepare an item. He even has guidelines for school personnel and administrators to get on the program. Maybe it’s not a revolution per se, but a reality check. One that can save literally thousands of lives. His goal is quite simple: Fresh, tasty, and nutritious foods.

Judging by the number of individuals (over 200, 000 to date) who have signed his petition for healthy foods in the schools, Oliver’s mission is making history.

It’s time.