As the foodservice industry continues to navigate the complexities of supply chain disruptions and shifting consumer preferences, one trend remains a beacon of hope: the growing participation in the Child Nutrition Programs' (CNP) Child Nutrition Reimbursement (CEP) initiative. According to the latest data, CEP participation has continued to rise, albeit at a slower pace compared to previous years. With more schools and institutions opting for the CEP program, which allows them to purchase food products at a fixed reimbursement rate, rather than relying on traditional meal reimbursement rates, the industry is witnessing a significant shift in the way meals are procured and served. As the demand for CEP continues to grow, industry experts will be closely watching to see how this trend impacts the broader foodservice landscape.


CEP participation continues to rise but its growth has slowed compared to recent years  FoodService Director