W. Va. Code R. § 126-85-20
Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024
Section 126-85-20 - Meal Requirements and Recommendations20.1. The USDA lunch requirements are designed to provide a simple and easy-to-follow framework for planning nutritious and well-balanced lunches. They provide for broad food choices that can include local food preferences, cultural, ethnic and religious food practices. 20.2. The USDA meal requirements are specific to the kinds and amounts of food for each of the four food components. However, a minimum of five food items must be served, as shown below: 20.3. Other foods may be added as needed to complete the lunch and will provide additional food energy (calories) and other nutrients. These foods are served in addition to foods that meet the component requirements of a reimbursable lunch. They do not contribute to the USDA meal pattern requirements. 20.4. Additional menu items should always contain less than 40 percent sugar (in crystalline form or in solution as syrup, both monosaccharides and disaccharides) and/or other sweetening agents. 20.5. Schools are encouraged to serve school-baked items from recipes using limited amounts of sugar. It is the responsibility of the SFA or school to obtain sugar content statements that indicate percentage of total sweetening agents in questionable food and beverage items. 20.6. In addition to the USDA requirements and recommendations, the VWBE has adopted school meal standards that implement the concepts of the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Policy 4321.1, Standards for School Nutrition specifies nutrient and food standards. SFAs must select and plan menus according to either Option A (nutrient analysis) or Option B (modified meal pattern) or an approved USDA meal pattern. 20.7. The policy also addresses the nutrient needs of the pregnant and lactating student by requiring additional foods be provided to said students so that breakfast and lunch together or in combination with a snack, provide: 20.7.1. a total of 5 oz. of protein foods, 1 oz. of which shall be 1 oz. cheese, 1 cup yogurt or 8 oz. fluid milk; 20.7.2. 3 servings from the grain group, preferably from whole grains; 20.7.3. 1-1/4 cups from the fruit and vegetable group; 20.7.4. 16 oz. from milk group; and 20.7.5. in these additional foods, the following option shall be allowed, 1 cup of fruit in place of one serving of the grain group once a week. W. Va. Code R. § 126-85-20