The Child Nutrition Labeling Manual provides food manufacturers with instructions on how to apply and obtain approval for a CN label.
CN numbers that appear on the valid list apply to the CN logo and crediting statement only. It is the manufacturer's responsibility to ensure that the product label meets all over federal labeling requirements.
The term "Alternate Protein Product" is the name used by FNS to identify products meeting requirements set forth in Appendix A of the NSLP, SBP, SFSP, and the CACFP within the section entitled Alternate Protein Products.
CN labeling policies and procedures are provided here (QC requirements and compliance, reviews, program manuals, tips for submitting CN labels, and the manufacturer's product formulation statement).
How to complete FSIS Form 7234 when applying for CN label approval.
All manufacturers submitting CN label applications are responsible for providing complete and accurate information. AMS reserves the right to move an application into a pending status when corrections are required.
In school year 2013-14, FNS introduced the unified administrative review and a 3-year review cycle. Since then, FNS has received feedback about the difficulties of the shorter review cycle, both for the state agencies conducting the reviews, and for school food authorities preparing for and responding to reviews.
This memorandum informs stakeholders on the progress made by FNS in updating the food crediting system for all child nutrition programs. This is a first step towards improving the crediting system to best address today’s evolving food and nutrition environment and meet the needs of those operating and benefiting from the CNPs.
This is to notify current and future applicants seeking review and approval of CN labels by the United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service that, effective Oct. 1, 2018, the hourly fee shall be $112.00 per hour for CN label review services.
CN labels, factsheets, and product labels provide a way for food manufacturers to communicate with school program operators about how their products may contribute to the meal pattern requirements for meals served under the USDA CN programs. Included are tips for acceptable documentation.