Posts Tagged ‘usda’
Second Study of Nutrition and Activity in CACFP
USDA released their second report on the Study of Nutrition and Activity in Child Care Settings (SNACS-II), which follow their first in 2022. SNACS-II uses data from program year 2022-23 to assess how well children’s diets and CACFP meals align with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Read MoreUSDA Rescinds Guidance on Interpretation of Discrimination Based on Sex
The USDA released a memorandum rescinding 2022 guidance regarding the interpretation of discrimination based on “sex.” The 2022 guidance redefined the definition of “sex” to include gender identity and sexual orientation. Therefore, the rescission of this guidance will revert USDA’s definition back to its previous interpretation and omit mention of gender identity and sexual orientation.
Read MoreOff-Site Monitoring in FY25
USDA has the authority to waive statutory or regulatory program requirements for Child Nutrition Programs. State Agencies can submit a 12(l) waiver application to USDA in order to allow for flexibilities, including off-site monitoring, in their state. In Fiscal Year 2025, at least nine States have applied and been approved for an off-site monitoring waiver.
Read MorePresident’s Budget: Proposed Cuts to Child Nutrition Grants and Training
The White House released the President’s Budget for Fiscal Year 2026, which includes cuts to discretionary spending for Child Nutrition Programs (CNPs). While the budget maintains full funding for Child Nutrition Programs, like the CACFP and SFSP, the cuts to discretionary spending include the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Grant and the Institute for Child Nutrition (ICN), a National Ally of NCA.
Read MoreEnhancing Child Nutrition Program Meal Standards
The USDA released a memorandum stating that they support and encourage states and school districts to experiment with meals to provide interesting, healthy, and diverse meals.
Read MoreFinal Rule: Rescission of Obsolete Data Collection
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.
Read MoreUsing Federal Funds to Purchase Local Foods
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.
Read MoreQuarterly Policy Update: April 2025
The start of 2025 has come with many changes as a new administration has taken office and a new Congress has began. So far in 2025, two important CACFP bills have been re-introduced, CACFP Week was recognized nationwide, and a USDA request for information was completed.
Read MoreQuarterly Policy Update: January 2025
The end of 2024 brought many changes and updates for the CACFP. USDA announced funding for child care to purchase local, released two requests for information, released seven pieces of guidance, published two studies.
Read MoreUSDA Request for Information: Grain-Based Desserts & High-Protein Yogurt
On December 26, 2024, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service released a request for information (RFI) to help inform future policy, guidance, and technical assistance related to grain-based desserts and high-protein yogurt crediting in Child Nutrition Programs (CNPs). This is not a proposed rule, USDA is simply seeking additional information before moving forward with any rulemaking or future policy decisions.
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