Contracting with a Food Service Management Company (FSMC)
As defined in Federal Regulation 7CFR210.16, a Food Service Management Company (FSMC) is a commercial enterprise or a non-profit organization which is, or may be, contracted with/by the Local Education Agency (LEA) to manage any aspect of School Food Service (SFS).
Contracts between an LEA and a FSMC must be reviewed annually by the State Agency as required by 7CFR210(a)(6). This is before signing of contract. As required by Federal Regulations Federal reimbursement cannot be paid otherwise.
This contract must be based on the requirements contained in 7 CFR Parts 210, 215, 220, 225, 226, 245, 250, 3016, 3017, 3018 and OMB Circular No. A-102, Attachment O, paragraph 14 and “USDA’s Contracting with Food Service Management Companies – Guidance for Local Educational Agencies (LEA’s) – J.
You should have your legal advisor review the contract and add those attachments that may be needed to meet local needs and to ensure that the contract reflects the best terms possible for the LEA and covers all facets of your food service operation.
- Contracting with Food Service Management Companies: Guidance for School Food Authorities Link to USDA document