Memo Text
ATTENTION SUPERINTENDENTS, CO-OP DIRECTORS AND CHILD NUTRITION DIRECTORS
The momentum of the Farm to School movement in Arkansas Child Nutrition Programs is exciting! Section 4207 of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 outlines compliance with the Buy American Requirements as schools continue to bring in local foods.
Agricultural commodities and the products of agricultural commodities shall be processed in the United States and substantially contain meats, vegetables, fruits, fish, and other agricultural commodities produced in the United States or any territory or possession of the United States.
This provision supports the mission of the Child Nutrition Programs, which is to serve children nutritious meals and support American agriculture.
The Arkansas Child Nutrition Unit has consulted with several outside partners to develop the attached guide that addresses food safety requirements for local commodities in the state.
The United States Department of Agriculture has released several policy memos that address this topic as well:
- SP 42-2015: Service of Traditional Foods in Public Facilities (attached)
- SP 01-2016: Procuring Local Meat, Poultry, Game, and Eggs for Child Nutrition Programs (attached)
- SP 32-2019: Buy American and the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (attached)
When buying local products, Child Nutrition Programs must follow federal procurement guidelines and maintain appropriate documentation when contracts are made with local processors. Attached is a “Procuring Local Foods for Child Nutrition Programs” resource for guidance.
If you have questions about the guide or would like more information about Farm to School Programs, please contact the Child Nutrition Unit (501) 324-9502.