4th Nationwide Waiver Released: Meal Pattern
In light of the exceptional circumstances of this public health emergency, USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) has granted a fourth nationwide waiver to support access to nutritious meals while minimizing potential exposure to the novel coronavirus (COVID–19). (See first three waiver re: meal times, non-congregate, and afterschool activity here.)
In this new policy memo, FNS waives, for all States, the requirements to serve meals that meet the meal pattern requirements during the public health emergency due to COVID-19.
Nationwide Waiver to Allow Meal Pattern Flexibility in the Child Nutrition Programs - applies to NSLP, SBP, CACFP, and SFSP (link)
This waiver is effective immediately, and remain in effect through April 30, 2020, or until expiration of the federally declared public health emergency, whichever is earlier. This waiver applies automatically to all States that elect to use it, without further application.
FNS expects and strongly encourages Program operators to maintain and meet the nutrition standards for each Program to the greatest extent possible.
Important note: Local program operators must contact the State agency for approval to utilize this waiver.