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Selecting and Storing Fresh Produce

Incorporating fresh produce into the food you serve can be a great practice, but it’s important that you know how to properly store different types of produce. Our partners at the International Food Information Council (IFIC) have tips on how to select and store fresh produce so they stay good longer and don’t go to waste.

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Creating Variety and Flavor with Seasonal Produce

Have you ever eaten a fresh apple or a peach right off a tree? If so, you know seasonal produce is fresh and tastes delicious, making children more likely to eat it. In addition to great taste, buying seasonal products also helps sustain the local economy.

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Fruit, Vegetable, and Sugar Sweetened Beverage Intake Among Children

In February 2023, the CDC released state-level data on fruit, vegetable, and sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) intake among young children. The data was collected through a 2021 national survey in which respondents were asked three questions about children aged 1–5 years regarding the frequency of consuming fruits, vegetables, and sugar-sweetened beverages during the preceding week. The report found that many young children between ages 1 and 5 years old are not eating fruits and vegetables each day and are regularly drinking SSBs.

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Raising Adventurous Eaters with First Foods

Pile of pamphlets for raising adventurous eaters

For anyone involved in feeding little ones — whether that’s a parent, caregiver, family member, or friend — timely guidance can make it easier to navigate the ups and downs of each child’s feeding journey. That’s why our partners at Partnership for a Healthier America and the Dr. Yum Project are providing anticipatory guidance on infant feeding and early veggie introduction.

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Serving Children that are Vegetarian in the CACFP

Young Asian girl eating a cherry tomato with a bowl of lettuce in front of her and other vegetables on the table

So, some of your participants are vegetarian. Not a problem, there are vegetarian dishes that all children can enjoy! Plus, many meat alternates are a cost-effective protein source. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN) have some great resources for serving vegetarian menus that fit into the CACFP meal pattern.

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