Production Records for School Nutrition Programs

Overview


School Nutrition Programs  |   Program Guidance  |   Forms  |   Resources  |   Nutrition Education


The USDA regulations for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) (7 CFR 210.10(a)(3)) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) (7 CFR 220.8(a)(3)) require that school food authorities (SFAs) must maintain daily production records that document the service of reimbursable meals to students. A production record is a working tool that outlines the type and quantity of foods that need to be purchased and available for the meal service. SFAs must keep production records on file with all other required records for the school nutrition programs.

Purpose of Production Records

Production records help verify that the SFA’s meal service meets the USDA meal pattern requirements for reimbursable meals and afterschool snacks. Completed production records show how the offered meals and afterschool snacks contribute to the required meal components and food quantities for each grade group every day. 

Production records are also an important communication tool that informs food service staff about what foods and recipes to use, what quantities to prepare, and what amounts to portion. This information ensures that all school food service staff understand the daily food production requirements and promotes provides consistency and quality in meal preparation.

In addition to documenting reimbursable meals, production records also provide valuable information about the meal service, such as the quantities prepared and total meals served. This historical information helps with future menu planning. SFAs can use previous production records to forecast trends, identify student preferences, and plan future menus. Production records also help SFAs with controlling waste, tracking food safety, and conducting a nutrient analysis of menus.

Guidance

Training