Posts Tagged ‘cacfp’
Incorporating Local Beef Into CNP Meals
USDA released a memo outlining opportunities within current CACFP and SFSP regulations for operators to procure and use local beef in their creditable meals. The release of the memo is in response to the 2025-2030 DGA recommendation to prioritize protein foods. The memo does not make any changes to current requirements of the CACFP and SFSP; it simply outlines resources to help operators source and serve local beef.
Read MoreCACFP Early Intervention for Obesity Prevention Among U.S. Children
The CACFP is one of the earliest points of intervention for obesity prevention for young children. The high-quality nutrition provided by the CACFP has been proven to improve diet-quality and reduce the risk of obesity.
Read MorePower Up with Protein
Protein is a key part of a healthy diet. It helps children grow strong by building muscles, repairing tissues, supporting the immune system, and giving the body energy. Our partners at the Institute of Child Nutrition define protein, highlight its importance, and provide common food sources.
Read MorePromoting Stronger Program Integrity and Oversight in the CACFP
USDA sent a memorandum to CACFP State agency Directors outlining the importance of program integrity and recommending oversight strategies to prevent fraud, waste and abuse.
Read MoreDietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030 – Eat Real Food
USDA released a memo outlining some of the key updates included in the 2020-2030 DGAs. While USDA emphasizes that CACFP and SFSP operators familiarize themselves with the recommendations, there are no immediate changes to program requirements. Operators must continue to follow current CACFP and SFSP meal pattern requirements
Read MoreHeart of the CACFP Spotlight Nominations
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, we’re thinking a lot about love. This month, we want to shine a little extra light on the people who pour their hearts into the CACFP each and every day. Help us honor these dedicated individuals by nominating someone who deserves recognition for their exceptional impact.
Read MoreQuarterly Policy Update: January 2026
In the last three months, multiple updates have been issued by USDA and Congress. In early January, we saw the release of the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, as well as the passing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act into law. In addition, USDA has approved off-site monitoring waivers for State agencies, released the 2026 SFSP reimbursement rates and rural designation map, and hosted a webinar on serious deficiency in the CACFP. NCA has also developed new resources on CACFP program integrity to support our community. Keep reading to see what you’ve missed and stay up to date with CACFP policy!
Read MoreProgram Integrity in the CACFP: Role of Sponsoring Organizations
Behind every CACFP meal is a system of oversight designed to maintain public trust and protect the people the program serves. Sponsoring organizations ensure compliance, accountability and continued access to nutritious meals while providing ongoing technical assistance. Here are resources that explain how program integrity is upheld in the CACFP.
Read MoreSerious Deficiency in the CACFP
The USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) posted a webinar recording for CACFP State agencies on the Serious Deficiency Process. The training was meant to equip State agencies with the ability to identify serious deficiencies and maneuver through the serious deficiency process.
Read MoreOff-site Monitoring in FY26
In Fiscal Year 2026, at least 20 States have submitted waiver requests to USDA to allow one monitoring visit to be conducted off-site for family day care homes. Read more to see which states have applied, and which states have requested additional waivers.
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