This manual provides information on creditable and noncreditable foods in child care centers, before-and-after-school centers, family day care homes, and adult day care centers. Creditable foods are foods that may be counted toward meeting the requirements for a reimbursable meal. Foods are determined to be creditable according to guidelines concerning: (1) nutrient content; (2) customary function in a meal; (3) whether they meet regulations governing the Child Nutrition Programs; (4) whether they meet the Food and Drug Administration's Standards of Identity; (5) whether they meet the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Standard for Meat and Meat Products; and (6) whether they are in agreement with administrative policy decisions on the crediting of particular foods. While they may be served as extra foods, noncreditable foods do not meet the guidelines. Contents of this manual include a meal pattern food chart and information on the following components: milk; meat and meat alternatives; fruit and vegetables; and bread and bread alternatives. Also included is information on infant feeding, the crediting of combination foods, a menu checklist, and a list of foods high in vitamins A and C and iron. (RH)