The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published the final rule, Nutrition Labeling of Standard Menu Items in Restaurants and Similar Retail Food Establishments in the Federal Register (79 FR 71155) on Dec. 1, 2014.
Recently, we have received numerous concerns regarding the improper application of the new procurement rule, Procurement Requirements for the National School Lunch, School Breakfast and Special Milk Program, which was published in the Federal Register on Oct. 31, 2007 and became effective on Nov. 30, 2007.
This memorandum clarifies FNS policy regarding the calorie and nutrient requirements for meals planned using alternate menu planning approaches.
It has come to our attention that there may be some confusion concerning fluid milk, and how it is offered in reimbursable lunches. Under all menu planning approaches, fluid milk is a separate food component/menu item.
In accordance with the Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006, state or Area Agencies on Aging and Indian Tribal Organizations and their selected grantees may use funds received in the Nutrition Services Incentive Program to pay school food authorities participating in school meals programs to make food purchases.
This notice corrects Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations, parts 210 to 299.
This final rule also adds a method that allows schools to use “any reasonable approach” to plan menus.
The National School Lunch Act requires that schools that are participating in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Programs claim reimbursements only for lunches or breakfasts which meet the nutrition standards of the National School Lunch Act, including compliance with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.