Accommodating Special Dietary Needs ICN-OSNM 09 ORIENTATION TO SCHOOL NUTRITION MANAGEMENT Accommodating Special Dietary Needs 1 1

Identify major legislation related to disabilities. Objective Identify major legislation related to disabilities.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Prohibits discrimination against qualified handicapped persons in any program or activity that receives federal financial assistance.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (cont.) Defines handicap as “…a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities”

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Ensures that all children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) Prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in areas of employment, public services, public accommodations, transportation, and communication

The Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008 Expanded the definition of a disability Became effective January 1, 2009 New regulations are still being put into effect

Objective Identify legal, food safety, and financial considerations related to special needs.

Other Legal Considerations Regulations, Guidance State law, Case law School policy and procedure Documentation Prescription/medical orders followed as written Confidentiality

Food Safety Considerations Follow principles of food safety when preparing special needs foods. Maintain a separate area for allergenic foods.

Financial Considerations Special foods, supplements, consultations Equipment–may be funded through IDEA Medicaid (varies from state to state) Title 1 and PTA

List required components of the diet prescription. Objective List required components of the diet prescription.

Only a licensed physician can diagnose a disability Accommodations must be made No extra charge to student

Examples of Food Related Disabilities Diabetes Phenylketonuria (PKU) Food anaphylaxis

Statement for Children with Disabilities What the disability is Major life activity or Activities of Daily Living (ADL) affected How it restricts the diet Complete diet order – including texture modifications Foods to be omitted and substituted

Special Dietary Needs That Are NOT A Disability Food intolerances and allergies (unless anaphylactic) Accommodations may be made but are generally not required In many cases, can be accommodated through offer vs. serve or by providing additional choices

Statement for Children Who Are NOT Disabled Signed by a recognized medical authority (physician, nurse, others specified by State agency) Identify the medical/dietary condition that restricts the child’s diet Foods to be omitted and substituted

Identify common dietary modifications. Objective Identify common dietary modifications.

Common Menu Modifications Texture Calories ground increased chopped decreased pureed Consistency of Liquids nectar honey pudding

Food Allergy A reaction between a food protein and the body’s immune system Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening

Most Common Allergenic Foods Milk Treenuts Soy Crustacean shellfish Wheat Peanuts Fish Eggs

Anaphylaxis A severe, life-threatening allergic response

Objective Describe effective and appropriate interaction with those who have disabilities and their caregivers.

The Institute of Child Nutrition www.theicn.org 800-321-3054 Thank you! The Institute of Child Nutrition www.theicn.org 800-321-3054