Nutrient Analysis Protocols

The Final Rule for USDA's Nutrition Standards in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs, (published January 26, 2012) intends to ensure the provision of nutrient-dense meals (high in nutrients and low in calories) that meet the health needs of school children and reflect the most current dietary science. Under the rule, all schools must follow a Food-Based Menu Planning (FBMP) approach for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and for the School Breakfast Program (SBP) and produce enough food to offer each child the quantities specified in the meal pattern. State agencies (SAs) may be required to conduct weighted nutrient analyses of school lunches and breakfasts for students in grades K through 12 as part of the Administrative Review (AR). Although School Food Authorities (SFAs) are not required to conduct nutrient analyses, they are expected to follow the meal pattern in order to meet nutrient targets. However, SFAs may conduct nutrient analyses of meals to determine if they are in compliance with the required Dietary Specifications.