Navigating the world of child care can be a rollercoaster, and meal planning is no exception. Trying to find food items that meet the CACFP’s CN label requirements can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone! We’ve done the legwork and rounded up some of the top food vendors that specialize in CN label products. Let’s make meal planning simpler!
What is A CN Label?
A CN (Child Nutrition) label provides information on how a product contributes to the meal pattern requirements set by the USDA. Manufacturers submit their products to the USDA to receive a CN label, which makes menu planning easier and ensures compliance during program reviews.
CN labels are available for main entrées that contribute to the meats/meat alternates component of the meal pattern, and can also indicate the contribution of grain and vegetable components. Examples of CN label food include beef patties, cheese or meat pizzas, chicken nuggets, corn dogs, fish sticks, meatballs, and lasagna. To learn more about CN labels, check out this article.
Why do many child care centers use food distribution vendors for CN labels?
- Many child care centers use foodservice vendors because they provide CN labels directly with the delivery of the food. There’s no need to hunt these labels down!
- Additionally, food distribution vendors are ideal for larger centers because of the cost savings of buying in bulk.
- Not to mention, many daycares choose food distribution services because of the time saved by having food delivered directly to the center.
Are you a childcare center looking for a food service vendor that provides CACFP-friendly foods? We’ve researched the top food distribution vendors for CACFP eligible products.
Top Food Distribution Vendors for CN label products
Gordon Food Service
Available in the Southeast, Northeast, and Midwest, Gordon Food Service offers a wide range of CN-labeled products. To learn more, visit their website here. Use the chat box to select “become a customer,” provide accurate contact information, and describe your food-service needs, mentioning your requirement for CN-labeled products. A Gordon representative will then reach out with more information.
Ben E. Keith is available across the Southeast and Midwest. Ben E. Keith offers the Zoo Crew Program for daycares, which includes CN label products and menus. To learn more about the food delivery service with Ben E. Keith, fill out the contact form here, and one of their representatives will reach out.
Sysco
Sysco is available nationwide and offers the Sysco E-Nutrition program to promote healthy recipes and provide menus and product info, including CN labels. To contact Sysco about their services, fill out this form here, and they will provide you with the next steps.
US Foods
US Foods is available across the US and provides CN label items. To learn more about US Foods, and how they can help your center, fill out the form here, and one of their sales representatives will reach out.
Get Quotes for Products you Use Frequently
Before you make your final decision, we’d recommend you talk to several vendors about their CN label products. Get quotes on items you use frequently, and after comparing prices and selection of CACFP eligible foods, make your final decision.
What’s your favorite food service vendor?
What’s your favorite food distribution vendor for CN label foods? Leave your suggestion in the comments below!
Navigating Menus Requirements Can Be Daunting, but We’re Here to Help!
Navigating the complexities of menu requirements and administrative reviews can be daunting, but we’re here to help. Our CACFP Support Team specializes in guiding daycare centers through the intricacies of CACFP compliance.
We provide comprehensive support to ensure you meet all the necessary standards, and we assist you in preparing for and successfully navigating administrative reviews. Contact us today to learn how we can make your CACFP experience seamless and stress-free!