Frequently Asked Questions        

What do the new Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards do?

The new standards will allow schools to offer healthier snack foods for children. Students will still be able to buy snacks that meet common-sense standards for fat, saturated fat, sugar, and sodium while promoting products that have whole grains, low-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables, or protein foods as their main ingredients. It is important to note that the USDA has no role in regulating foods brought from home. The standards do not apply to any foods brought to school in bagged lunches or for birthday parties held in the classroom.  

What is the definition of the school day?

For the purpose of competitive food standards implementation, the USDA defines the school day as the period from midnight the night before, to 30 minutes after the end of the official school day.

What is the definition of the school campus?

For the purpose of competitive food standards implementation, the school campus is defined as all areas of the property under the jurisdiction of the school that are accessible to students during the school day.

What is the definition of a school-sponsored event?

A school-sponsored event is an event that occurs outside of the enrolled single classroom and involves several members of the student body. Examples of school-sponsored events include field days, spirit days, or other school celebrations. 

What is considered a fundraiser?

A fundraiser is an event that includes any activity during which currency, tokens, or tickets are exchanged for the sale or purchase of a product in support of the school or school-related activities.

Do the Smart Snacks in Schools Standards apply to all fundraisers?

All fundraisers held during the school day (the period from midnight before, to 30 minutes after the end of the official school day) are required to meet the nutrition standards. The only exception would be selling food items that are clearly not intended to be eaten immediately (i.e. frozen cookie dough). The sale of food items that meet the Smart Snacks in Schools Standards is not limited in any way. The standards do not apply during non-school hours, on weekends, and at off-campus fundraising events.

What kind of snacks can be served during standardized testing?

If snacks are purchased by the PTO or provided by the school for students during standardized testing, the items served must meet the Smart Snacks in Schools Standards. Snacks brought from home are not subject to these standards.