FNS Documents & Resources

This memorandum provides information to assist WIC state agencies in ensuring WIC supplemental foods on the state approved product list meet the minimum federal nutrition requirements and specifications.

The guidance document provides policy guidance for states regarding the operation of the SNAP Nutrition Education and Obesity Prevention Grant Program, referred to as SNAP-Ed.

Summer sites play a valuable role in helping children learn, grow, and stay healthy. Check out the SFSP Nutrition Guide to learn how you plan and serve menus with a variety of nutrient-rich foods and beverages, and operate a safe and successful food service. 

This memorandum provides a policy option to states to help soften the impact that reduced SUAs might have on SNAP households in certain state.

The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) provides all children in participating schools with a variety of free fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the school day.  It is an effective and creative way of introducing fresh fruits and vegetables as healthy snack options. 

Due to the impact on SNAP benefits resulting from continuing fluctuations in energy prices, FNS is modifying the Standard Utility Allowance blanket waiver memorandum of Oct. 14, 2010 to allow certain states to extend fiscal year (FY) 2010 SUA amounts through March 31, 2011.

It has come to FNS's attention that, due to unusual shifts in utility costs, SNAP benefits to needy families may decrease when states make annual SUA adjustments this year - even if the circumstances of those households remain constant.

This policy memorandum identifies the purpose, necessary elements and outcomes for nutrition services documentation in the WIC program.

Several state agencies have recently asked FNS to approve increases in their Standard Utility Allowances (SUA’s) for heating and cooling based on projections of substantial price increases in energy sources – particularly natural gas. We are aware of broad interest in the issue of the impact of higher energy prices on household budgets and appreciate the conferences and correspondence that bring this issue to our attention.

GAO Report to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry U.S. Senate on Nutrition Education: USDA Provides Services through Multiple Programs, but Stronger Linkages among Efforts Are Needed