USDA has released the final rule, Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, establishing long-term school nutrition standards.
The rule takes effect July 1, 2024; however, USDA is gradually phasing in mandates and schools are not required to make any menu changes until school year 2025-26 at the earliest. USDA’s website provides full details on the rule, including a chart comparing the 2023 proposed rule with the final standards.
The final rule reflects feedback and concerns raised by SNA members and is detailed in SNA’s March 2023 comments in response to the proposed rule. SNA’s press release on the rule expressed appreciation to USDA for establishing more attainable, long-term goals and urged Congress to provide necessary funds to address challenges and ensure school meal programs can successfully implement the rules.
Stay tuned to SchoolNutrition.org for further analysis of the rule, opportunities to provide feedback, and tools, including webinars and education sessions, to assist members in understanding and meeting the new regulations.
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