Minnesota Child Nutrition Programs Facing Increased Scrutiny

(St. Paul, MN)  —  Federal child nutrition programs operating in Minnesota are facing increased scrutiny as the state returns to pre-pandemic rules.  Some nonprofits and providers are concerned that allegations of a 250-million dollar food fraud scandal will raise barriers for legitimate organizations to distribute food to low-income children.  Federal waivers that loosened rules and oversight during the pandemic have now expired.  The move means more on site visits, and stricter rules about where meals need to be eaten.  Nonprofit leaders say the high number of meals served will likely “self-correct” now that schools are back open full time.