Skip to main content

USDA Foods & Processing

Home / About Us / Departments / Child Nutrition Programs / USDA Foods & Processing

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) purchases foods through direct appropriations from Congress, under the surplus removal program and price support activities. The foods are distributed to State agencies for use by eligible outlets, including schools.

Our mission at the Idaho Department of Education is to support Child Nutrition Programs throughout the State of Idaho by providing USDA Foods to eligible programs.

Participating Schools and Institutions

Idaho works with several programs throughout the state and offers a variety of food items to these programs. These programs include schools and institutions participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and Summer Food Service Program (SFSP).

Available Products

Products available through the USDA-donated USDA Foods Program are items such as meats, vegetables, fruits, grains, and dairy products.

Idaho Participation

Idaho has a strong processing program. Through the USDA programs, the State of Idaho has contracted with commercial food processors to convert bulk or raw USDA Foods into more convenient ready-to-use products. Most of the USDA Foods processed through this program go to schools participating in NSLP.

Web Applications

Gold Star Foods logo

GSF Ordering

Gold Star Foods online order entry system allows customers to place orders in real-time, search current product inventory, personalize account information, manage and customize order forms and print orders.

Launch GSF Ordering App

Helpful Information

To access resources, click the appropriate + sign below.