What is the difference between “competitive foods” and “foods of minimal nutritional value?
Section 210.11 of Title 7 of the Code of Federal Regulations (7CFR) has two definitions. The first is for competitive foods defined as “any foods sold in competition with the Program to children in the food service areas during the lunch periods.” The second defines foods of minimal nutritional value. The definition establishes a formula that foods which contribute less than 5% of at least one of eight identified nutrients per serving or 100 calories is a food of minimal nutritional value. However, the regulation then goes on to refer to Appendix B where specific categories of these foods are listed. It is this list which must be followed and it includes carbonated beverages, hard candies, chewing gum, etc. As with all federal and state laws, local government can write more restrictive laws and regulations.
