Meal Pattern Minute: Evaporated Milk

Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) meal pattern requirements include specific regulations for the fluid milk component. However, situations such as emergencies or supply disruptions can raise questions about alternative options. So, where does evaporated milk fit in? Before making menu decisions, it's important to understand the guidance and requirements surrounding its use. 

Get the details in this Meal Pattern Minutes as Isabel Ramos-Lebron, MS, RDN, LD, discusses when evaporated milk may and may not be credited in the CACFP.

Transcript: The answer is that it depends. Canned evaporated milk may be creditable as fluid milk only under limited conditions when fluid milk is unavailable. This allowance applies in unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters or supply disruptions, when a sufficient supply of fluid milk cannot be obtained. CACFP operators must check with their State agency or sponsoring organization before using evaporated milk as a substitute.

Always follow USDA guidance and obtain the necessary approval to ensure meals remain creditable for reimbursement. 

Be sure to explore the resources below and stay in contact with your State agency or Sponsor when questions arise about meal pattern flexibilities. Keeping up with current USDA guidance helps ensure your meals remain both nutritious and reimbursable. 

• CACFP 01-2025: Nutrition Requirements for Fluid Milk and Fluid Milk Substitutions in the Child and Adult Care Food Program, Questions and Answers  
  • Provides USDA guidance on fluid milk requirements, allowable milk substitutions, and crediting standards for meals served through the CACFP. 
• CACFP Crediting Handbook 
  • Guidance on crediting common foods served in the CACFP and documenting meal pattern requirements in the CACFP. 
• CACFP Emergency Meal Planning (Member-Only Resource) 
  • Offers practical guidance and planning strategies to help CACFP operators maintain meal service and meet program requirements during emergencies and unexpected disruptions. 
• Webinar Recommendation: Emergency Preparedness in Head Start ($)
  • Discover ways to integrate emergency preparedness and planning into your facility operation plans while including all departments. Practice writing your own emergency plans to support your program and outline your next steps.

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