Promoting Real Food in

Child Nutrition Programs

USDA’s Team Nutrition is pleased to announce the release of nutrition education and training resources designed to help Child Nutrition Program operators to promote the clear, common-sense message of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2025-2030: Eat real food.

These resources focus on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods. These foods include​ protein foods, dairy, healthy fats, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains​. Additionally, it highlights the importance of limiting the intake of highly processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates.

Resources for Schools

• Real Food Guide to School Lunch for Families
• Real Food Guide to School Breakfast for Families
• Stronger With School Meals Activity Booklet 

Resources for Child Care Organizations

• Serving Vegetables in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Training Worksheet, Recorded Webinar, and Training Slides (.pptx)
• Nibbles for Health: Nutrition Newsletters for Parents of Young Children
  • Healthy Meals with the Real Food Pyramid (.pdf)
  • Developing a Taste for Less Sodium (.pdf)
  • Limiting Added Sugars for Healthier Habits (.pdf)
  • Prioritize Protein Foods (.pdf)

Are you real food-savvy? Test your knowledge with the Eat Real Food Web Quiz!

Visit our website at fna.usda.gov/teamnutrition.

Share your activities with us by emailing us at TeamNutrition@usda.gov.