Policy Memo (403.76 KB)
| DATE: | March 31, 2015 | |
| POLICY MEMO: | SP 23-2014 (v.3) | |
| SUBJECT: | Questions and Answers Related to the “Smart Snacks” Interim Final Rule | |
| TO: | Regional Directors Special Nutrition Programs All Regions | State Agencies Child Nutrition Programs All States |
Attached is the third in a series of Questions and Answers related to the interim final rule titled, “National School Lunch and School Breakfast Program: Nutrition Standards for All Foods Sold in School as Required by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010.” This document will be updated periodically as additional questions arise during the implementation of the interim final rule (IFR) during School Year 2014-2015. Updated or new questions are noted with three asterisks (***).
As you know, the Smart Snacks nutrition standards were implemented on July 1, 2014. However, the express purpose of publishing an IFR is to ensure that there is the opportunity for continued dialogue as implementation of the Smart Snacks requirements proceeds and issues are identified and evaluated. Our intent is to monitor issues that arise as the Smart Snacks standards are implemented so that we may respond in real time to such issues as well as address them as we move forward.
These Questions and Answers and other information on Smart Snacks in school are available on the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) website and may be found at http://www.fns.usda.gov/healthierschoolday/tools-schools-smart-snacks. State agencies should distribute this memorandum and attachment to program operators as soon as possible. Local education agencies and school food authorities should contact their state agency for additional information.
State agencies may direct any questions concerning this guidance to the appropriate FNS regional office. We look forward to continuing to work with you on improving the nutrition of our nation’s children.
Angela Kline
Director
Policy and Program Development Division
Child Nutrition Programs