FNS Documents & Resources

This factsheet provides information on "Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing, and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption.".

This fact sheet provides information on Good Agricultural Practices, recognized practices intended to prevent the microbial contamination of fresh produce, and how these practices apply to purchasing and growing local food products for farm to school activities. 

This fact sheet outlines a number of additional resources for those seeking to directly purchase or raise food products for school nutrition programs.

"Food Safety Frequently Asked Questions: The Food Safety Modernization Act and its Impact on Farm to School Activities": This document includes common questions related to food safety when purchasing locally grown and raised food products directly from producers as well as food safety considerations for edible campus gardens.

School meals, and the school nutrition professionals that provide them, help children be strong physically and mentally. Celebrate the school community and promote healthy foods with these fun new school meals materials.

Use these materials to bring your school community together to create strong school environments that support students’ growth, learning, and well-being. 

Each year, a growing number of schools are sourcing and serving safe, locally grown foods from nearby farmers or school gardens. Misconceptions about food safety should not keep schools from enjoying these nutritious and fresh food options. Get the facts with this quick reference sheet.

In this webinar, we’ll share local food safety best practices, including identifying safety measures for school gardens and school salad bars.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) provides all children in participating schools with a variety of free fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day.  It is an effective and creative way of introducing fresh fruits and vegetables as healthy snack options.