Foods with CN Labels for CACFP Meals in Oklahoma

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Foods with CN labels for CACFP meals can be served when running a home daycare. We all have times when we need help in the kitchen and don’t have time to make homemade food. That’s when these can come in clutch and save the day. Of course, it’s ideal to make everything homemade, but that’s not always a reality.

The Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) ensures that meals served to children meet specific nutritional standards. One way to meet compliance with CACFP guidelines is to use foods with Child Nutrition (CN) labels.

CN-labeled foods provide assurance that the product meets the meal pattern requirements for CACFP and other USDA nutrition programs. Here’s an in-depth look at foods with CN labels, where to find them, and how they can enhance your meal planning in Oklahoma.

What Are CN Labels?

A CN label is a statement authorized by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service that appears on the packaging of certain food products. It clearly outlines how the product contributes to CACFP meal pattern requirements. For example, a CN-labeled chicken nugget package might indicate the serving size and how many ounces of meat/meat alternates are provided per serving.

Benefits of Using CN-Labeled Foods

1. Compliance Made Easy: CN-labeled foods take the guesswork out of meal planning by providing clear portion sizes and creditable components.
2. Time-Saving: Instead of calculating nutrition contributions manually, you can rely on the CN label’s verified information.
3. Audit-Friendly: CN labels simplify documentation and help providers meet CACFP review requirements.

Common Foods with CN Labels

Here’s a list of popular CN-labeled foods that are widely used in CACFP-compliant meat and meal alternate meals:

• Chicken Nuggets and Patties
  • CN-labeled chicken products are a staple in many child care settings. They’re easy to prepare and appeal to kids.
  • Look for brands like Tyson or Pilgrim’s Pride.
• Fish Sticks
  • CN-labeled fish sticks or portions provide a convenient way to add seafood to your menu.
  • Available from brands like Gorton’s or Trident Seafoods.
• Beef Patties
  • Pre-portioned beef patties with CN labels are perfect for burgers or Salisbury steak meals.
• Breakfast Burritos
  • CN-labeled burritos with eggs and cheese contribute to both protein and grain components.
• Corn Dogs
  • Popular with kids, CN-labeled corn dogs often feature whole grain-rich breading.
• Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks
  • These combine whole grains and dairy for a two-component food item.
  • Commonly available from brands like Bosco Sticks.
• Veggie Patties
  • CN-labeled vegetarian patties provide a meat/meat alternate option while introducing kids to plant-based meals.

Where to Find CN-Labeled Foods in Oklahoma

1. Food Distributors:
   • US Foods and Sysco supply a wide range of CN-labeled products to child care centers and schools.
   • Contact your local distributor for product catalogs and availability. They have big quantities, but you could coop with other home daycare providers and split up big boxes.
2. Retail Stores:
   • Big-box retailers like Sam’s Club and Costco often carry CN-labeled items in bulk packaging. And don’t forget Schwan’s. They have some CN-labeled products.
3. Local Grocers:
   • Regional grocery chains may stock CN-labeled products, particularly frozen foods. More recently this is harder to find than it used to be.
4. Online Suppliers:
   • Websites like WebstaurantStore and Amazon Business offer CN-labeled items with delivery options.
5. Cooperative Purchasing Groups:
   • Join local food purchasing cooperatives that specialize in supplying CACFP-compliant foods.

Tips for Using CN-Labeled Foods in CACFP Meals

• Read the Label Carefully:
  • Ensure the portion size matches your menu requirements.
• Keep Documentation:
  • Save the CN label and packaging for records. This is a MUST!
• Balance the Meal:
  • Pair CN-labeled items with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to create balanced menus.
• Train Staff:
  • Educate your team on recognizing and using CN-labeled foods effectively.
• Explore New Products:
  • Regularly check for new CN-labeled options to keep menus exciting and varied.

Incorporating CN-labeled foods into your CACFP meal planning in Oklahoma is a practical way to ensure compliance and save time on occasion. For more ideas on healthy meals without CN labels, check these out:

• 5 Minute Daycare Lunches
• Daycare Food Menu Meal Planning Guide
• Dirt Cheap Meals for Daycare
• 23 Quick and Easy Pantry Meals
• Daycare Menus, Breakfast, Lunch, and Snack Ideas