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Meal Patterns & Menu Planning

Information and resources on the federally mandated meal patterns, menu planning options, and meal documentation requirements for all child nutrition programs.
Important Notice: CACFP Program Moved to CDSS

The Early Childhood Development Act of 2020 (Senate Bill (SB) 98, Chapter 24, Statutes of 2020) authorized the transfer of child care and development programs administered by the California Department of Education to the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) effective July 1, 2021. The content on this page may not be current and involves the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) that has moved to CDSS. Visit the CDSS CACFP web page External link opens in new window or tab. or call 1-833-559-2420 for more information.

Child and Adult Care Food Program

Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Meal Pattern
Includes meal patterns (MP), upcoming workshop and conference information, online courses, resources, policy guidance, compliance, frequently asked questions, and contact information for CACFP program operators.

Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations (DOC)
Child Nutrition Program (CNP) 925 - This form is used by parents/guardians to have a medical authority prescribe special meals or accommodations during meals.
Available translations of the Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations for Child Nutrition Programs (Dated Aug-2017)

School Nutrition Programs

Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations (DOC)
CNP 925 - This form is used by parents/guardians to have a medical authority prescribe special meals or accommodations during meals.
Available translations of the Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations for Child Nutrition Programs (Dated Aug-2017)

Menu Planning and Production Record Forms
Forms used to determine the amount of food to serve for menu production.

School Menu Planning Options
Information and resources on the new Food-Based Menu Planning (FBMP) approach for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and current menu planning for the School Breakfast Program (SBP).

Summer Food Service Program

Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations (DOC)
CNP 925 - This form is used by parents/guardians to have a medical authority prescribe special meals or accommodations during meals.

Available translations of the Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations for Child Nutrition Programs (Dated Aug-2017)

Nutrition Requirements External link opens in new window or tab.
USDA information and resources on the menu planning, preparation documentation, and MP for sponsors participating in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).

Questions:   Education and Nutrition Policy Unit | HHFKA@cde.ca.gov | 800-952-5609
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, June 16, 2021
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