USDA Memo SP 02-2024: How to Credit Tofu and Soy Yogurt

Download Now: Free Tofu Crediting Cheat Sheet

Hey there, fellow nutrition nerds! Today, let's dive into the wonderful world of tofu and soy yogurt crediting in our school nutrition programs. It's all about adding a dash of creativity and nutrition to those delicious student meals. So, let's unravel the magic behind these protein-packed goodies!

A Journey Through Time and Tofu

Picture this:

• Back in July 2012, tofu made its grand entrance as a Meat/Meat Alternate (M/MA) in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP).
• Fast forward to October 2017, when it extended its reach to the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), embracing children ages 1+ and adults.
• And the latest scoop from November 2023? Tofu got the green light in the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and for our littlest munchkins aged 6-11 months in CACFP and NSLP preschools. Talk about a protein revolution!

Cracking the Crediting Code

Now, let's break it down in our kitchen language. For every 2.2 oz or ¼ cup of tofu, you're looking at 1 oz eq M/MA, with a protein punch of at least 5 grams per serving (check your labels!). 

• When it's SFSP time, aim for a minimum serving of 2 oz eq (that's 4.4 oz or ½ cup of tofu, packing 10 g protein) for lunches and suppers.
• Snack time? Think 1 oz eq (2.2 oz or ¼ cup tofu; 5 g protein) for that perfect nibble.
• And let's not forget our soy yogurt sidekick! Clocking in at 4 oz or ½ cup for 1 oz eq M/MA, just ensure it plays nice with sugar limits for our yogurt-loving kiddos.

Top Chef Tips and Tricks

Now, here's where the culinary fun begins! Make sure your tofu creations are easily recognizable by our young food explorers. Stir-fries, omelets, miso soup, and lasagna? Totally credit-worthy! But hold off on blending it into smoothies or sneaking it into baked desserts – that's a non-creditable move. And if you're jazzing it up with tofu products like burgers or sausages, keep that protein game strong with at least 5 grams per 2.2 oz or ¼ cup (check your documentation!). Oh, and a friendly reminder: CN Labels for tofu products are like our kitchen's golden seal of approval!

Magic Math

A pound of tofu delivers an impressive 37 grams of protein. That translates to about:

7.28 (¼-cup) servings or 7.25 oz eq M/MA per lb

So there you have it, folks! Tofu and soy yogurt – not just ingredients, but superheroes in our quest for nutritious, kid-approved meals. Let's credit, create, and cultivate a culture of healthy eating together. Cheers to culinary adventures and nourishing young minds!

References:

• 📃 SP 02-2024, CACFP 01-2024, SFSP 02-2024 - Revised: Crediting Tofu and Soy Yogurt Products