Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Program
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) is part of an initiative by U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to offer elementary schools a wider variety of fresh produce than what is available through regular USDA Child Nutrition Programs, such as the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
The goal is to create healthier school environments by providing healthier food choices, expanding the variety of fruits and vegetables children experience, increasing children’s fruit and vegetable consumption, and making a difference in children’s diets to impact their present and future health.
FFVP Grant Application Announcement
The Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program Grant Application for the 2026-2027 school year is now open! View the information and instructions with the link below.
Helpful Information
To access information, click the appropriate + sign below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for FFVP implementation
Participating elementary schools are required to publicize the availability of the FFVP and must serve the fresh fruits and vegetables during the school day, outside the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program meal service times. Beyond these requirements, schools have flexibility in determining their implementation plan. Schools may select the type of produce served, decide the number of days per week to serve the produce (though schools are strongly encouraged to serve a minimum of two days per week), and choose the time outside the breakfast and lunch meal service to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to children.
How do FFVP reimbursements work?
Selected elementary schools receive $50 to $75 per student for each school year. The exact amount of per student funding is determined by the State agency and is based on the total funds allocated to the State and the student enrollment at participating schools. With these funds, schools purchase fresh fruits and vegetables to serve free of charge to children during the school day. Participating schools submit monthly claims for reimbursement, which are reviewed by the school food authority before payment is processed by the State agency. Schools are then reimbursed for the cost of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as limited non-food costs.
Can schools bid FFVP, NSLP, and SBP purchases together?
Yes. However, schools must be able to demonstrate which items are purchased for the FFVP.
May adults participate in the FFVP?
Teachers may participate under the following conditions:
- Only teachers who are directly responsible for serving the fruit or vegetable to their students in a classroom setting may partake of the fruit and/or vegetable
- The FFVP is not available to the general teacher population and other adults in the school
- Teachers choosing to participate with their students are strongly encouraged to include a nutrition education component to enhance their positive role modeling
- No additional FFVP funds will be provided; schools must stay within their per student allocation
Is full strength/freshly squeezed fruit or vegetable juice allowed in the FFVP?
No. Juice is not allowed as part of the FFVP.
Other Resources
Food Safety
- Food Safety
- Handling Fresh Produce in Classrooms
- Produce Safety University
- USDA Food-Safe Schools Action Guide
Idaho Preferred
Nutrition Education
- Fruit and Vegetable Nutrition and Storage
- Idaho Agriculture in the Classroom Literacy Curriculum
- P.A.C.K Material for Teachers
- PBH Foundation Kid’s Coloring Pages
USDA Resources
Training Opportunities
Annual Training
FFVP training is required annually for all schools receiving a grant award. The training is available in in the CNP Digital Learning Portal.
Other Training Resources
CNP Divisions
Quick Links
FFVP Handbook
Nondiscrimination Statement
Contact
Pamela Murray, MS, SNS
Coordinator
(208) 332-6831
pmurray@sde.idaho.gov