CACFP Meal
Patterns
This chapter has four parts:
Why CACFP Meal Patterns
Are Important . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 21
Meal Pattern Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 23
Meal Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31
Meal Pattern Exceptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 42
Meal Patterns2
Why CACFP Meal
Patterns Are Important
One goal of the CACFP is to serve attractive, tasty meals that
meet a child’s nutritional needs. Using the CACFP meal pattern,
you can offer appealing meals that are consistent with the Dietary
Guidelines for Americans. Careful planning is necessary to meet
these goals.
21
CACFP Meal Patter ns
See Child Care Recipes Food for
Health and Fun, Beef Barbecue
Sandwich (F-8) and Coleslaw (E-9).
22
C H A P T E R 2
■ What is a meal pattern?
A meal pattern is the set of food components, food items, and minimum quantities
required for a breakfast, supplement (snack), or lunch or supper for a specific age group
of children.
The CACFP meal pattern for infants is shown on pages 24 and 25. The CACFP meal
pattern for children is shown on pages 26 through 30.
■ What does the CACFP meal pattern help you do?
It helps you plan well-balanced, nutritious meals and snacks. Meals and snacks planned
with the CACFP meal pattern supply the kinds and amounts of foods that children
require to help meet their nutrient and energy needs.
■ What are the age groups for CACFP meal patterns?
An important step in planning and preparing meals through the CACFP is determining
the age group (or groups) you will be serving and selecting the correct meal pattern for
these children. The age groups are designed to reflect the differing nutritional needs of
children.
The CACFP meal pattern for infants is divided into the following age groups:
Birth through 3 months
4 months through 7 months
8 months through 11 months
For children ages 1 through 12 years old, the CACFP meal pattern is divided into these
age groups:
Ages 1 through 2 years
Ages 3 through 5 years
Ages 6 through 12 yea