Posts Tagged ‘Grains’
USDA Request for Information: Grain-Based Desserts & High-Protein Yogurt
On December 26, 2024, the USDA Food and Nutrition Service released a request for information (RFI) to help inform future policy, guidance, and technical assistance related to grain-based desserts and high-protein yogurt crediting in Child Nutrition Programs (CNPs). This is not a proposed rule, USDA is simply seeking additional information before moving forward with any rulemaking or future policy decisions.
Read MoreFeeding Infants in the CACFP: Updated Guidance
USDA updated previous guidance on Feeding Infants in the CACFP. Updates include information on medical statements, substituting vegetables for grains in specific groups, added sugar limits, and tofu and tempeh crediting.
Read MoreGrain Requirements in the CACFP Q&A
The USDA released a memorandum to provide updated guidance on the provisions of the 2024 final rule that apply to the grains requirements in the CACFP, which included adding a definition for whole grain-rich into CACFP regulations; changing product-based limits for breakfast cereals and yogurts from total sugars to added sugars; and updating guidance on substituting vegetables to meet the grains requirements for eligible program operators.
Read MoreSubstituting Vegetables for Grains in Tribal Communities & Hawaii
CACFP and SFSP operators that primarily serve American Indian or Alaska Native participants can substitute ½ cup of any creditable vegetables or 1 cup of raw leafy greens for 1 oz eq of grains. Vegetables substituting as grains can be used to meet the whole grain-rich requirement in the CACFP. There is no limit to the number of times per week that vegetables may be substituted for the grains requirement.
Read MoreWhole Grains Month
September is Whole Grains Month. From whole wheat to nutty quinoa, whole grains add flavor, texture, and nutrition to your diet. Whether you’re baking bread, cooking dinner, or prepping snacks, there’s a whole grain option for every dish. Our partners at Oldways Whole Grains Council have materials to help you incorporate whole grains into your menu.
Read MoreCelebrating with Creditable Grains
December is a month full of holiday celebrations, such as Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and more. It is also a great time to model healthy habits by showing different ways to celebrate. We traditionally think grain-based desserts like brownies, cakes, and cookies are essential during festivities. However, several healthy grain options can be included as part of a meal or snack.
Read MoreNutrition Facts Labels and the CACFP
The Nutrition Facts label on food packages provides helpful information. It is a great tool to use when planning menus to determine creditable foods. Our partners at the Institute of Child nutrition created a resource focused on how to use the Nutrition Facts label to credit certain foods in the CACFP.
Read MoreNew Feature Available on the Exhibit A Grains Tool
The Exhibit A Grains Tool has a new feature that allows users to select their Program and Meal to filter the search results to only creditable grain items for their specific Program.
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