USDA Regulation 7 CFR Part 15b requires substitutions or modifications in school meals for children whose disabilities restrict their diets. A child with a disability must be provided substitutions in foods when that need is supported by a signed statement from a licensed physician. <\/p>\n
In Cases of Food Allergy<\/strong> <\/p>\n Generally, children with food allergies or intolerances do not have a disability as defined under either Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or Part B of IDEA, and the school food service may, but is not required to, make food substitutions for them. However, when in the licensed physician\u2019s assessment, food allergies may result in severe, life-threatening (anaphylactic) reactions, the child\u2019s condition would meet the definition of \u201cdisability\u201d, and the substitutions prescribed by the licensed physician must be made.<\/p>\n School food service may make food substitutions, at their discretion, for individual children who do not have a disability, but who are medically certified as having a special medical or dietary need. Such determinations are only made on a case-by-case basis. This provision covers those children who have food intolerances or allergies, but do not have life-threatening reactions (anaphylactic reactions) when exposed to the food(s) to which they have problems. Medical Statement for Children with Special Dietary Needs<\/strong><\/p>\n Each special dietary request must be supported by a statement explaining the requested food substitution and must be signed by a recognized medical authority. The Medical Statement must include:<\/p>\n MEDICAL STATEMENT TO REQUEST SPECIAL MEALS AND\/OR ACCOMMODATIONS (ENGLISH)<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n