Posts Tagged ‘usda’
Incorporating Local Beef Into CNP Meals
USDA released a memo outlining opportunities within current CACFP and SFSP regulations for operators to procure and use local beef in their creditable meals. The release of the memo is in response to the 2025-2030 DGA recommendation to prioritize protein foods. The memo does not make any changes to current requirements of the CACFP and SFSP; it simply outlines resources to help operators source and serve local beef.
Read MorePromoting Stronger Program Integrity and Oversight in the CACFP
USDA sent a memorandum to CACFP State agency Directors outlining the importance of program integrity and recommending oversight strategies to prevent fraud, waste and abuse.
Read MoreDietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030 – Eat Real Food
USDA released a memo outlining some of the key updates included in the 2020-2030 DGAs. While USDA emphasizes that CACFP and SFSP operators familiarize themselves with the recommendations, there are no immediate changes to program requirements. Operators must continue to follow current CACFP and SFSP meal pattern requirements
Read MoreSFSP 2026 Reimbursement Rates
The USDA has released the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) reimbursement rates for 2026. The rates are effective from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2026. On average, the 2026 rates have increased by 3.7% from last year.
Read MoreSerious Deficiency in the CACFP
The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) posted a webinar recording for CACFP State agencies on the Serious Deficiency Process. The training was meant to equip State agencies with the ability to identify serious deficiencies and maneuver through the serious deficiency process.
Read MoreWhole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Signed Into Law
The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act was signed by the President and passed into law on January 14, 2026. This bill updates the milk requirements for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) to allow the service of whole and reduced-fat milk, which was previously unallowable. This update only applies to school lunch.
Read MoreNCA FY25 Advocacy Round-Up
CACFP advocacy is central to the mission of National CACFP Association (NCA) and NCA is continuously working to support and advocate for you! This year, we’ve worked to help raise awareness, expand and improve the CACFP. Your NCA membership supports these efforts. THANK YOU!
Read MoreQuarterly Policy Update: October 2025
In the last few months, there have been many actions by USDA, HHS, and Congress impacting Child Nutrition Programs. Keep reading to see what you’ve missed and stay up to date with CACFP policy!
Read MoreFY26 Area Eligibility Map Updated
Back to Blog Back to Blog FY26 Area Eligibility Map Updated September 29, 2025 USDA announced that the CACFP and SFSP Area Eligibility Mapper has been updated for fiscal year 2026. Why It Matters Census data and school data are the two primary sources that may be used to determine whether a site is area…
Read MoreUSDA Announces $72.9 Million in Specialty Crop Block Grant Funding
USDA announced $72.9 million in grant funding to states through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The purpose of the SCBGP is to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops (including floriculture).
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