Smart Snacks in School refers to the national nutrition standards for foods and beverages sold outside of the federal reimbursable school meal programs during the school day. These items are called competitive foods because they can compete with participation in school meal programs.
All competitive foods and beverages sold during the school day must meet or exceed Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards.
Which food and beverages sold at school need to meet the Smart Snacks Standards?
1. Any food and beverage sold to students at schools during the school day,* other than those foods provided as part of the school meal programs.
2. Examples include à la carte items sold in the cafeteria and foods sold in school stores, snack bars, and vending machines.
3. Foods and beverages sold during fundraisers, unless these items are not intended for consumption at school or are otherwise exempt by your State agency.
Steps to ensure compliance:
1. Become familiar with the Smart Snacks Standards and their nutritional requirements.
2. Complete an inventory of foods and beverages sold on the school campus, even fundraisers, during the school day to determine what your school sells to students.
3. Eliminate foods and beverages that do not meet Smart Snacks Standards. Put food items through the Smart Snack Calculator below to determine if products meet these standards.
4. Educate district staff and students about healthy choices through posters, district and school policies and announcements.
* The school day is defined as the midnight before to 30 minutes after the end of the school day.