USDA has a dual mission of providing healthy food to children and supporting American farmers. All USDA Foods products are grown, processed, and packaged in the United States or its territories.
The USDA Foods in Schools program supports domestic nutrition programs and American agricultural producers through purchases of 100% American-grown and -produced foods for use by schools and institutions participating in the National School Lunch Program, the Child and Adult Care Food Program, and the Summer Food Service Program.
USDA Foods products are minimally seasoned and processed so they can be customized to meet the diverse menu needs of school districts across the country. Beans, rice, cheese, tomatoes and chicken are just a few examples of products that can serve as base ingredients for the creation of many culturally or regionally inspired dishes. The variety and versatility of USDA Foods products allows schools to develop their menus based on their regional and cultural preferences, while still meeting the required nutrition standards. USDA Foods makes it easy to prepare healthy meals that are affordable and that students enjoy.
