Processor

USDA Foods Processing

The USDA Foods in Schools program supports domestic nutrition programs and American agricultural producers through purchases of 100% American-grown and -produced foods for use by schools and institutions. USDA Foods are available to child nutrition programs in three ways: direct delivery, USDA Foods Processing, and the USDA DoD Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program.

USDA Foods Processing allows State Distributing Agencies and Eligible Recipient Agencies, such as school districts, to contract with commercial food processors to convert raw bulk USDA Foods into more convenient, ready-to-use end products. USDA Foods Processing is governed by regulations contained in the Code of Federal Regulations at Title 7, Part 250, Subpart C.

• USDA Foods Further Processing Fact Sheet

National Processing Agreement

Below is guidance and information for State Distributing Agencies, eligible Recipient Agencies, and commercial processors regarding the review and approval of a USDA National Processing Agreement (NPA).

• NPA Approved Processors

Current USDA Foods processors operating under an NPA can find contact NPA@usda.gov for more information.

In-State Processing Agreement

In addition to multi-state processors who have National Processing Agreements, USDA Foods Processing includes in-state processors who are based in and operate exclusively within the state and have an agreement with their State Distributing Agency. For more information, please contact your State Distributing Agency.

Additional Resources

• Processing Program Policy Memos
• Processing Program Webinars
• Processor Material Prices
• Advanced Processing and Reconciliation Training 
• Audit Guide for USDA Food Processors
• Treasury Department Circular 570 for Approved Sureties
• USDA Foods in Schools Ordering Schedule for School Year 2021
• The USDA Foods in Schools Available List outlines the USDA Foods that are available or expected to be purchased through each program. Items highlighted in yellow are bulk for further processing. The list is subject to change based on market availability.
• USDA Foods: How to Get Your Product Considered: If your product is not yet being purchased by USDA, please review the following guidelines to determine if your product meets the minimum criteria for consideration.
• USDA Foods Processing Templates and Forms
• American Commodity Distribution Association (ACDA)  offers many processing resources including templates.