FNS Documents & Resources

FNS published a final rule, “Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans” (RIN 0584-AE88) in the Federal Register on April 25, 2024 which introduces a new recordkeeping requirement for the CACFP. FNS is publishing a 30-Day Notice for this final rule submission because the agency changed how the requirement and burden change were submitted for approval in the final rule from what was used in the proposed rule.

This guide informs small entities participating in child nutrition programs about the final rule, Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent With the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, and how to comply with it. This guide does not include any new requirements; it just summarizes existing guidance related to the final rule.

A webinar for state agency and school food authority staff focused on the Final Rule: Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent With The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines For Americans. 

This memorandum provides a detailed explanation of the expanded geographic preference option. 

On April 25, 2024, FNS published the final rule, Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent With the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This rule includes minor updates to the Child and Adult Care Food Program and Summer Food Service Program to better align Child Nutrition Program requirements. These updates represent continued progress toward supporting the nutrition quality of school meals, strengthening the Child Nutrition Programs, and advancing USDA’s commitment to nutrition security. 

This webinar shows tips for preparing and supporting children, training staff, and meeting CACFP meal pattern requirements to successfully serve meals “family style.”