Starting October 1, 2021, all program operators will be required to use ounce equivalents (oz.eq.) when menu planning. Training on this change is included in our 2021 annual training webinar.

Grains are an important part of meals in the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP). To make sure children and adults get enough grains at CACFP meals and snacks, required amounts for the grains component are listed in the meal pattern as ounce equivalents (oz. eq.). Ounce equivalents tell you the amount of grain in a portion of food.