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This final rule seeks to provide short-term certainty regarding nutritional standards in the operations of the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program as well as within the Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) and the Special Milk Program (SMP) for operators returning to operations after the COVID-19 pandemic. The final rule will implement a meal pattern standard for School Years (SY) 2022-2023 and 2023-2024. Schools typically make menu planning, procurement, and contract decisions well in advance of the school year, and they need ample lead time and support to implement regulatory requirements. USDA will also invite comments on the whole grain-rich, sodium, and flavored milk requirements, as well as any other meal pattern changes that may be needed. FNS will seek comment in preparation for a new science-based proposed rule for subsequent school years to align with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.