New CACFP Meal Pattern Effective 10/01/2017

Under the updated CACFP nutrition standards, meals and snacks served will include a greater variety of vegetables and fruit, more whole grains, and less added sugar and saturated fat. In addition, the standards encourage breastfeeding and better align the CACFP with the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and with other Child Nutrition Programs.

Current Meal Patterns (In effect through September 30, 2017)

CACFP centers and day care homes may continue to comply with the current meal standards as they transition to the updated meal standards. However, all aspects of meals served through the CACFP must meet the updated standards no later than October 1, 2017. Information on the current meal standards can be found at the links below.

For detailed information on the CACFP new meal pattern for Infants and older children please see USDA’s full article – Nutrition Standards for CACFP Meals and Snacks.