Understanding National Per-Meal Value: Definition and Importance

Q: How is the national per-meal value determined?

It is calculated based on data from the previous school year for meals served in the NSLP and CACFP.

Q: Can schools and childcare centers use this value for budgeting?

Yes, it helps them determine funding and manage meal service costs effectively.

Definition & Meaning

The national per-meal value refers to the monetary worth assigned to donated foods provided for each reimbursable meal served under specific federal nutrition programs. According to federal regulations, this value applies to lunches served in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and to lunches and suppers served in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) during the previous school year. This value is established based on provisions in the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The national per-meal value is primarily used in the context of federal nutrition assistance programs. It plays a crucial role in determining the funding and resources allocated to schools and childcare facilities participating in these programs. Understanding this term is essential for administrators, educators, and organizations involved in food distribution and nutrition services. Users can manage related processes using legal forms provided by platforms like US Legal Forms, which offer templates for compliance and reporting.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A school district receives funding based on the national per-meal value for each lunch served to students in the NSLP, which helps cover the cost of food and preparation.

Example 2: A childcare center calculates its reimbursement for meals served in the CACFP using the national per-meal value, ensuring they meet federal guidelines for nutrition and budgeting. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

Key legislation includes:

Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act - establishes the framework for the NSLP and sets guidelines for the national per-meal value.
Child and Adult Care Food Program regulations - outline the provisions for meal reimbursement in childcare settings.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State	Notes
California	May have additional state funding programs to supplement federal values.
Texas	Specific guidelines on local food sourcing may affect per-meal calculations.
New York	Local health regulations may influence meal service standards and funding.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition	Differences
Meal Reimbursement	Funds provided to schools for each meal served.	National per-meal value is a specific calculation used to determine reimbursement amounts.
Food Distribution Program	Programs that provide food to low-income individuals and families.	National per-meal value specifically relates to school and childcare meal programs.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in a school or childcare program that serves meals under the NSLP or CACFP, ensure you understand how the national per-meal value affects your funding. You can explore US Legal Forms for templates and resources to help manage compliance and reporting. If you encounter complex issues, consider seeking professional legal assistance.

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Quick facts

Applicable Programs: NSLP and CACFP
Determination: Based on previous school year's data
Legal Basis: Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act
Relevance: Affects funding and meal service in schools and childcare facilities

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the national per-meal value?

It is the monetary value assigned to donated foods for each reimbursable meal served under federal nutrition programs.