The Child Nutrition (CN) label and a manufacturer’s Product Formulation Statement (PFS) are documents that provide a way for a manufacturer to demonstrate how a processed food product may contribute to the meal pattern requirements in child nutrition programs (CNP). Both a CN label and PFS are voluntarily provided by manufacturers at the request of program operators.
- A CN label is approved by USDA and provides a warranty of a product’s meal pattern contribution when the product is used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- A PFS is typically provided for processed products that do not have a CN label.
Below are links to additional guidance and technical assistance related to CN Labels and PFS.
CN Labeling Program
CN Label Verification Reports
Monthly updated reports listing valid CN label numbers and manufacturers that have met FNS's quality control program requirements for the CN labeling program.
Product Formulation Statement
A PFS may be voluntarily provided by manufacturers at the request of program operators. A manufacturer’s PFS is not approved by USDA.
PFS Templates
- PFS for documenting meats/meat alternates
- PFS for documenting vegetables with subgroups/fruits
- PFS for Documenting total vegetables/fruits
- PFS for documenting grains - ounce equivalent (oz eq)
- PFS for documenting grains - grains/breads servings
Policy Guidance and Technical Assistance
- SP27 CACFP09 SFSP12-2015: Administrative Review Process Regarding the Child Nutrition (CN) Label, Watermarked CN Label and Manufacturer’s Product Formulation Statement (3/11/15)
- TA 07-2010 (v.3): Guidance for Accepting Processed Product Documentation for Meal Pattern Requirements(11/26/14)
- Tip Sheet for Accepting Processed Product Documentation (05/11/16)