FDA and USDA (we) are extending the comment period for the notice that appeared in the Federal Register of July 25, 2025. In the notice, we requested data and information to help develop a uniform definition of ultra-processed foods. In response to requests for an extension, we are extending the comment period until Oct. 23, 2025, to allow interested persons additional time to submit comments.
This notice sets forth the interpretation that the U.S. Department of Agriculture uses for the term “Federal public benefit” as used in Title IV of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. In doing so, this notice supersedes any prior interpretation in any notice or other document issued by any USDA agency. This notice also describes and preliminarily identifies the USDA programs that provide “Federal public benefits” within the scope of PRWORA.
The purpose of this memorandum is to remind schools, sponsors, and institutions participating in any USDA Child Nutrition Program, including the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, Special Milk Program for Children , Child and Adult Care Food Program, Summer Food Service Program, and the Seamless Summer Option , of the many ways they can purchase local foods to serve in program meals.
The 2023 Farm to School Census Findings FAQs addresses commonly asked questions about the Farm to School Census.
In cooperation with FNS, Association of State Public Health Nutritionists will administer the first Farm to Child and Adult Care Food Program Institute and Learning Collaborative, called FARMWISE, to advance Farm to CACFP efforts.
In cooperation with FNS, the Shelburne Farms Institute for Sustainable Schools is hosting the Farm to School Institute Adaptation Program. This program will teach state teams to host their own farm to school institutes. These institutes teach schools and childcare operators how to create and sustain farm to school programs.
This fact sheet outlines a number of additional resources for those seeking to directly purchase or raise food products for school nutrition programs.
"Food Safety Frequently Asked Questions: The Food Safety Modernization Act and its Impact on Farm to School Activities": This document includes common questions related to food safety when purchasing locally grown and raised food products directly from producers as well as food safety considerations for edible campus gardens.
The Farm to School team has cultivated resources, trainings, and technical assistance to help your program grow.
I'm New to Farm to School is a place full of resources to help you to get your farm to school program growing.