Share Box/Table

The USDA and OSPI Child Nutrition Services reference sheet (October 2023) outlines how share tables may be used to reduce waste and encourage consumption of nutritious foods. However, there are strict requirements that must be met, including:

• Share tables must comply with all Washington State Food Code requirements. 
• Programs must consult with and receive approval from the local health department prior to implementation.
• Items placed on share tables may only be re-used by the school lunch and breakfast programs, donated to a qualifying organization, or reused if handled under approved food safety guidelines.
• Food on share tables is not for adult consumption, classroom snacks, or direct distribution to families.

At this time, our district has not received approval from the local health department to implement share tables. Therefore, we are not permitted to use them in any of our schools.

In addition, certain items—specifically apples—are never permitted to be saved or redistributed once served to a student. This is a food safety requirement. Apples could not be saved even if we were approved to implement a share box.

Please ensure that no practices resembling a share table are taking place in your building cafeteria. If you observe food being collected, set aside, or redistributed outside of approved program service, please stop right away.

Thank you for your cooperation in maintaining compliance with USDA, OSPI, and Washington State food safety standards.