Special Dietary Concerns

Meals served in Frederick County Public Schools meet the requirement established by The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Meal Substitution Requirements Disabled Students

If a child has been determined by a physician to have a disability that prevents the child from eating the meals served at school, the school can make substitutions prescribed by the physician at no extra charge.

A completed form must be signed by a physician and returned before any substitutions are made. A new statement is required each year. For questions regarding ingredients in food, please contact the Nutrition and Food Service Office.

Meal Substitution Requirements Non-disabled Students

Substitutions for non-disabled students, with medically certified special dietary needs, who are unable to eat regular meals served at school may be approved on a case-by-case basis.

A completed form must be signed by a recognized medical authority, a recognized medical authority is defined as a physician, physicians assistant, nurse practitioner, or registered dietitian, that includes recommendations for alternate foods and returned before any substitutions are made. A new statement is required each year. For questions regarding ingredients in food, please contact the Nutrition and Food Service Office.

Milk Substitutions Non-disabled Students

The (USDA) regulations prohibit us from substituting juice or water for fluid milk in our meal programs. The USDA has made it clear that schools cannot claim a meal reimbursement if an acceptable milk substitute is not offered to students that are lactose intolerant, even if a physician has written that juice or water can be given. FCPS will make available lactose free milk in half pint cartons as part of the lunch and breakfast program at no additional charge to those students who have provided documentation from a physician that they are lactose intolerant.

A completed form must be signed by a recognized medical authority, a recognized medical authority is defined as a physician, physicians assistant, nurse practitioner, or registered dietitian before the substitution is made. A new statement is required each year.