The Weekly Update · Jul. 1, 2026

Annual CNIPS Applications, CA Food Label Changes & ANC 2026

Here’s what you need to know this week:

Annual CNIPS Applications

The SY 26-27 annual update (application) for NSLP, SBP, and NSLP snack sites is now open in California’s CNIPS. Get started on it now, and aim to submit before the first day of school. CDE must approve the application before we can submit our first claim of the year. Use these instructions to get it done! ✅

CDE Management Updates

With the governor’s budget now signed, a new education reform has been approved under AB 181. The overarching goal is to reduce bureaucracy and increase efficiency at CDE. “The 58 county superintendents back this proposal because lack of unified state direction forces schools to absorb the cost of competing priorities, making sustained improvement unlikely,” said Ed Manansala, El Dorado County superintendent of schools on the topic. The new law takes effect Jan. 15, 2027.

Changes to Food Labels in CA

California Food & Ag Code Sec. 82001 is updated, effective Jul. 1, 2026, to require all food manufacturers, processors, and retailers that add quality or safety dat es to their foods, to use one of the following “uniform” terms:

“Best if used by”
“Best if used or frozen by”
“BB” for small items (such as drinks)
“Use by”
“Use by or freeze by”
“UB” for small items (such as drinks)

These terms are replacing the “sell by” term, with the goal of reducing food waste. No immediate action is required from schools, but a good heads up for all our food safety neRDs out there! 🤓

ANC 2026

Are you headed to SNA’s ANC conference in Charlottesville, NC? Join our speaking session “What Auditors Really Look For: AR Findings Demystified!”

LunchAssist Consultant Caroline Olson, RDN & Melissa Manning, RD of My School RD are two former auditors who will be breaking down tips and tricks for acing your next AR. Join us Sunday, Jul. 12, @ 8 am! Hope to see you there! 😉

⭐️ Resources

📆 Upcoming Events

Jul. 8: Youth Engagement & Career Pathways in the Food System - NFSN
Jul. 23: The Growing Landscape of Statewide Local Food Solicitations - NFSN
Jul. 30: CA Farm to School Network Call - CDFA
✨ Aug. 20: Procurement Review Prep Call for PRO Members & Clients!
✨ Aug. 6: The Lunch Break by LunchAssist ~ we'll discuss all things Back-to-School!

✨ Sep. 3: SY 26-27 SNP AR Kick-Off Call on The Lunch Break!

LunchAssist is an allowable use of the Cafeteria Fund, KIT Funds, and R&R Grant. 🥳 Schedule a demo to learn more.

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