This instruction is intended to clarify allowable variations to child nutrition program food components in order to meet religious needs among Jewish schools, institutions and sponsors.
USDA Food and Nutrition Service policy memo SP 26-2013, "Extending Flexibility in the Meat/Meat Alternate and Grains Maximums for School Year 2013-14" extends the flexibility regarding Meat/Meat Alternate (M/MA) maximums for SY 2013-13, allowing state agencies to assess compliance based on the minimum daily and weekly serving requirements only.
Three pieces of legislation currently govern the level of food and administrative resources available to TEFAP in FY 2013: the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008; the Emergency Food Assistance Act of 1983; and the Continuing Appropriations Resolution 2013 which provides funding in FY 2013 at a pro rata share of the FY 2012 funding level through March 27, 2013.
This guidance replaces the 2004 edition of the Offer versus Serve in the School Nutrition Programs Resource Guide. In addition, please note that this guidance will be revised for School Year 2014-15 and beyond to reflect newly implemented meal pattern requirements as they are phased in.
FNS is adjusting the State of Hawaii's maximum and minimum SNAP allotments for fiscal year 2013, due to recent updates in the state's Thrifty Food Plan.
Data was collected from directors of 34 school food authorities participating in the Nutrient Standard Menu Planning demonstration during fall 1995 and winter 1996. This information was used to assess the implementation status of these sites and examine perceived strengths and weaknesses of the system.