Question 1

What is CrEATe?

Accepted Answer

What is CrEATe?

CrEATe is a free menu-planning and documentation-preparation toolkit for U.S. CACFP and SFSP programs. It supports menu drafts, meal-pattern gap checks, product-source lookup, production-record preparation, and sponsor organization features where available. Basic aggregate site cards are available; detailed cross-site planning summaries and sponsor reports are not, and CrEATe does not make final compliance determinations.

How do I create my first menu?

Is CrEATe free to use?

Do I need to create an account?

What programs does CrEATe support?

Question 2

Is CrEATe free to use?

Accepted Answer

Provider planning is currently free without usage limits. There is no paid subscription for that core today. Individual features may still change or be unavailable based on release status, service availability, and reasonable security, safety, or abuse-prevention controls.

Question 3

What do the Menu Builder checks cover?

Accepted Answer

The Menu Builder compares entered components and portions with configured federal meal-pattern fields and surfaces gaps for review. A clear check does not certify a menu, verify a product source, or replace current sponsor, state, and USDA guidance.

Question 4

What is a Product Formulation Statement (PFS)?

Accepted Answer

A Product Formulation Statement is a manufacturer document used to support how a processed product may contribute to meal-pattern components. Review the current document, confirm that it is complete and applicable to the exact product, and follow sponsor or state instructions for acceptance.

Question 5

How do I search product and source records?

Accepted Answer

Use Product Records to search by product name, brand, or category. Review the source and document status for each result. A listing or nutrition record alone is not proof that a product is creditable for your program.

Question 6

Does CrEATe help with state agency reviews?

Accepted Answer

CrEATe can help prepare menu and production-record drafts and organize available source references. Confirm the required forms, evidence, signatures, and retention rules with your sponsor or state agency before a review.

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