Meal Pattern Minute: Crediting Meats/Meat Alternates

Meats and meat alternates are a key source of protein when served in Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) meals and snacks, but crediting them correctly can feel challenging, especially when ounce equivalents vary depending on the meat or meat alternate. Understanding these measurements ensures your menus stay compliant and helps you plan portions confidently for all age groups. Ready to clear up the confusion?

Tune in to this Meal Pattern Minute as Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, explains how meats and meat alternates are measured and credited in the CACFP.

Transcript: Meats and meat alternates in the CACFP are measured in ounce equivalents of the edible portion served. A 1 oz eq of a meat or a meat alternate will vary based on the type served. For example, 1 ounce of cooked meat, poultry and fish credits as 1 oz eq of meat component, one large, cooked egg credits as 2-ounce equivalents, and ¼ cup of cooked beans or peas credits as a 1ounce equivalent. For more information on crediting meats/meat alternates explore the USDA Food Buying Guide Yield table. 

Below are helpful resources for CACFP operators regarding meats and meat alternates.

• USDA Food Buying Guide – Yield Table 
  • Get yield information for meats and meat alternates to help determine ounce equivalents.
• USDA CACFP Crediting Handbook  
  • A comprehensive resource explaining how all foods including meat and meat alternates are credited in the CACFP. 
• USDA Crediting Meats/Meat Alternates in Child Nutrition Programs Tip Sheet
  • This USDA tip sheet provides quick, practical guidance on how meats and meat alternates are properly credited in all Child Nutrition Programs, helping operators serve compliant, nutritious meals. 
• CACFP Meal Pattern Cards 
  • A quick reference for all minimum servings sizes for each meal type and age group. 
• Meal Pattern Minute Video Library
  • Watch more CACFP meal pattern explainers to keep you in the know on CACFP meal patterns.
• Webinar: Meats & Meat Alternates in the CACFP ($) 
  • Meats and meat alternates provide the protein kids need to grow, stay strong and stay full longer. From chicken and eggs to yogurt and beans, there are plenty of ways to serve protein-packed meals. Explore different types of meats and meat alternates on required serving sizes, serving methods and best practices. 
• Featured Recipe: Cheesy Bean Tostada
  • Give your menu a flavorful upgrade with this easy and kid‑approved Cheesy Bean Tostada! Built on a crispy baked tortilla and topped with seasoned refried beans, melted cheese, and fresh veggies, this recipe is both satisfying and CACFP creditable. It comes together quickly, uses affordable pantry staples, and delivers a nutritious balance of grains, meat alternates, and vegetables in every bite. 

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