Webinars & Events
Maximizing USDA Foods: Strategies to Stretch Commodity Dollars
February 24, 2026
This webinar helps school nutrition professionals unlock the full value of the USDA Foods (Commodities) Program to create appealing menus while making every dollar count. You will walk away with a clear understanding of how the program works, who is eligible, how Planned Assistance Level (PAL) entitlement is calculated, and how state systems handle ordering and distribution.
Attendees will learn:
- How the USDA Foods Program can strengthen and support your meal program
- The key differences between Direct Delivery, Processing, and DoD Fresh — and how to choose what works best for you
- How PAL entitlement is calculated and how to plan ahead for a smooth ordering season
- How to align commodity foods with menus students actually want to eat
- Smart, practical strategies to stretch entitlement dollars through better forecasting and product selection
Whether you are brand new to commodities or ready to be more strategic, you will leave with actionable ideas, planning tools, and the confidence to make your PAL dollars go further.