Word from the Director

On February 7, 2023 USDA announced a proposed update to the school nutrition standards.  The proposal's public comment period closed May 10, 2023. Final rule changes will not begin until SY 24-25. For more information and a summary of the proposed changes, visit https://www.fns.usda.gov/cn/proposed-updates-school-nutrition-standards

Summary of Changes for the Transitional Standards
School Year 2022-2023

• Milk: Schools and child care producers may offer flavored, low-fat milk (1%) in addition to unflavored, low-fat milk and flavored or unflavored nonfat milk.
• Whole Grains: At least 80% of the grains served in school lunch and breakfast per week must be whole grain-rich (containing at least 50% whole grains).
• Sodium: The weekly sodium limit for school lunch and breakfast will remain at the current level, known as Target 1, for school year 2022-2023.

School Year 2023-2024

• Sodium: For school lunch only, the limit will decrease marginally (10%) in school year 2023-2024 to put schools on an achievable path toward long-term sodium reduction, which will be addressed in future rulemaking.