USDA’s Smart Snacks in School standards are practical, science-based nutrition standards for all foods and beverages sold or served to students during the school day. The new rule went into effect July 1, 2014 and merges the previous Arizona Nutrition Standards.

The following Approved Foods List contains foods and beverages that meet the standards for K-8. This list is not all-inclusive. Alternative items may be available at different stores. Manufacturers’ ingredients and distribution change frequently. To find out if a food or beverage not on the list meets the standards, visit this Food Calculator. If you have additional questions, please contact the Nutrition Services office at (602) 257-3759.

SMART Snacks in Schools

All food and beverages sold in schools must meet the nutritional guidelines established by the USDA. The nutritional guidelines monitor the nutrient standards in categories such as whole grain-rich requirement, calories, sodium, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, and sugar. The school day is defined as the midnight before to 30 minutes after the end of the school day.

Fundraisers

All sales of foods and beverages sold in school must meet the Smart Snacks Standards. Foods and beverages sold during fundraisers, unless these items are not intended for consumption at school or are otherwise exempt. Foods and beverages sold during non-school hours, on weekends, or at off-campus events are also exempt.Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations section §210.11(b)(4) details the requirements for fundraiser restrictions. Regulations state that no exempted fundraiser foods or beverages may be sold in competition with school meals in the food service area during the meal service (this includes meals served as part of the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs).