CACFP Memos for 7/3/2017: Graham Crackers and Animal Crackers now Creditable; Food Production Record Changes

Bureau Notes for 7/3/2017

Bureau Memos and Updates will be posted here. 

USDA Memos

Grain-Based Desserts in the CACFP

CACFP 16-2017
Issued: June 30, 2017

This memo announces that USDA has determined sweet crackers (graham - all shapes, and animal crackers) will be creditable by no longer designating them as grain-based desserts. They made the decision based on extensive stakeholder input that sweet crackers are appetizing, low-cost, shelf stable, and frequently served in at-risk after school programs and rural areas because of these attributes. They acknowledge disallowing them would be particularly challenging and that flexibility is needed.  The Grain Chart in the Handy Guide to Creditable Food and updated CACFP Administrative Manual have been revised to include sweet crackers as creditable.  It may take a few days for the updated versions to be posted in Download Forms.

 

Documenting Meals in the CACFP

CACFP 17-2017
Issued: June 30, 2017

This memo indicates CACFP organizations are required to demonstrate they are serving meals that meet meal pattern requirements.  USDA specified organizations must keep must keep menu records but State agencies may determine other types of records required to demonstrate compliance.

In Iowa, center-based organizations are required to keep food production records for participants age one and above to document adequate quantities of food were prepared for the number and ages of people (staff and participants) served. In the updated edition of the CACFP Administrative Manual for Centers, the food production record forms have been revised to include a reference age group when serving children.

The reference age group is the age group for whom the serving sizes are planned. The revised food production records include the reference age groups (1-2 year olds, 3-5 year olds, or 6-12 year olds). Centers serving children must circle the reference age group the meals are planned for (n/a for adult care centers).  This should be the age group with the most children.

Record the serving sizes required by the meal pattern for the reference age group in the "planned serving size" column.  When using the long food production record form, multiply the number of older children by 2, add to the number of younger children, and record in column 5 (Estimated Number to be Served). When using the short or contracted food production record, plan double portions for children older than the reference age group.

Staff who prepare meals are required to communicate the planned serving sizes in writing to staff who are responsible for serving the food.   

Food production records are not required for infants under 12 months of age.

 

USDA guidance and memos are posted on the USDA policy website. 

Contact Robin.Holz@iowa.gov (515)281-3484 if you have questions.

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Robin Holz, MS, RDN
CACFP Lead Consultant, Centers
Bureau of Nutrition and Health Services
400 E 14th St
Des Moines 50319
Phone: 515-281-3484
Fax: 515-242-5988
Iowa Department of Education Website