Through legislation, USDA made the first major changes in school meals in 15 years, which will help us raise a healthier generation of children.
The new standards align school meals with the latest nutrition science and the real world circumstances of America’s schools. These responsible reforms do what’s right for children’s health in a way that’s achievable in schools across the Nation.
Regulation
-
Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs (1/26/12)
- Final Summary of Public Comments on Proposed Rule
Policy Memos
- SP 32-2017: School Meal Flexibilities for SY 2017-18
- SP 33-2016: Extension Notice: Requests for Exemption from the School Meals’ Whole Grain-Rich Requirement for SY 2016-17
- SP 10-2014 (v3): Smoothies Offered in Child Nutrition Programs (revision)
- SP 41-2015: Updated Offer versus Serve Guidance for the NSLP and SBP Beginning School Year 2015-2016
- SP 31-2013: Salad Bars in the National School Lunch Program
- SP 02-2013: Corn Masa (Dough) for Use in Tortilla Chips, Taco Shells, and Tamales
- SP 30-2012: Grain Requirements for the National School Lunch & School Breakfast Programs
- SP 26-2012: Formulated Grain Fruit Products
- SP 53 CACFP 21-2016: Crediting Tofu and Soy Yogurt Products in the School Meal Programs and the CACFP
- SP 10-2012: Q&As on Final Rule "Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs" (version 9)
Technical Assistance and Guidance Materials
- PFS Tip Sheet - Evaluate if the Document Is Acceptable
- Tools for Schools
- Setting the Record Straight
- Certification of Compliance with Meal Requirements
- Food Buying Guide for School Meal Programs
- Whole Grain Resource for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs (2/12/2014)
- Fact Sheet: Calories in School Meals
- Fact Sheet: Athletic Programs and Afterschool Meal Service
- New Meal Patterns and Dietary Specifications
- Comparison of Previous to New Regulatory Requirements
- School Meals Sample Menu (PDF) (JPG)