Creating Your First Menu
Walk through drafting a lunch menu and preparing it for source and human review.
Step-by-Step Guide
Start a New Menu
From your dashboard or the toolkit, click "Menu Builder" then "Create New Menu".
Configure Settings
Select your program (CACFP or SFSP), meal type (lunch), age groups served, and menu duration (1-4 weeks).
Add Menu Items
Click on any component slot (Grain, Meat/Alternate, Vegetable, Fruit, Milk) to search and add items. Review any displayed quantity or contribution estimate against the applicable product documentation.
Review Planning Checks
Use indicators to find missing inputs or items that need attention. A green check does not replace document review or sponsor approval.
Save and Prepare for Review
Use the save and output controls currently shown in the interface, then verify the saved draft before relying on it for your records.
Adding Items to Your Menu
If component controls are available, they may let you:
- Search Products: Type to find items in our database
- Browse Categories: Filter by food type
- Use Favorites: Quick access to items you use often
- Enter Custom Items: Add items not in the database
Use the star icon to mark frequently-used items as favorites for faster menu building.
Understanding Planning Indicators
In the mockup above, Monday passes the configured checks, while Tuesday has a warning because the vegetable component appears to be missing.
Treat a warning or suggestion as a prompt. Verify the proposed correction with current program guidance and applicable product documentation.