Nutrition Staff > Getting Started

Getting Started With Fresh, Local Foods in Your Cafeteria

SC Farm to School makes it easy for nutrition staff to bring fresh, local ingredients to their menus. Follow these simple steps to get started and make a lasting impact on your students' health and education.

Master the Basics of Procurement for Farm to School Success

For nutrition staff participating in SC Farm to School, understanding procurement is key to sourcing fresh, local ingredients while complying with federal, state, and local regulations. This ensures that every dollar supports both students’ health and the community’s agricultural economy.

Effective procurement opens doors to fresh, seasonal ingredients that enhance cafeteria menus and student satisfaction. By learning how to navigate procurement practices, nutrition staff can partner with local farmers, create transparent supply chains, and meet meal program requirements—all while making a meaningful impact on students’ health and education.

 

Read USDA’s Procurement Guide
A cluster of ripe red and partially ripe green tomatoes hanging from a vine in a greenhouse setting.