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CACFP Regulations & Guidance

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Final Rule: Rescission of Obsolete Data Collection

May 12, 2025

On May 12, 2025, USDA released a final rule titled Child and Adult Care Food Program: Rescission of Obsolete Data Collection Requirements. The final rule removes section 226.25(g) from the Code of Federal Regulation. This regulation required State agencies to collect and report data related to participating institutions during fiscal years 2006-2009.

Using Federal Funds to Purchase Local Foods

May 6, 2025

USDA released a memorandum to remind schools, sponsors, and institutions participating in any Child Nutrition Program (CNP) of the many ways they can purchase local foods to serve in Program meals.

Registered Dietitian Medical Statements

December 30, 2024

The USDA released a memorandum to clarify the updated regulatory requirement for program operators to accept medical statements from registered dietitians. The change requiring program operators to accept medical statements from registered dietitians must be implemented by July 1, 2025, for school meal programs and Oct. 1, 2025, for CACFP.

USDA Request for Information: CNP Tribal Pilot Project

December 23, 2024

On December 23, 2024, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service released a request for information (RFI) to inform their development of the Child Nutrition Programs Tribal Pilot Projects, as authorized in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024. The Act provided $2 million for Tribal Pilot Projects that will permit Indian Tribes and/or Tribal organizations to administer Child Nutrition Programs, assuming the roles and responsibilities typically held by State agencies.

Feeding Infants in the CACFP: Updated Guidance

December 20, 2024

USDA updated previous guidance on Feeding Infants in the CACFP. Updates include information on medical statements, substituting vegetables for grains in specific groups, added sugar limits, and tofu and tempeh crediting.