Menu Builder Introduction
The Menu Builder is your primary tool for creating USDA-compliant menus. Let's get familiar with the interface.
Menu Builder
Monday
Grain
Whole wheat bread
Meat/Alt
Grilled chicken
Vegetable
Steamed carrots
Milk
1% milk
Tuesday
Grain
White rice
Meat/Alt
Black beans
Vegetable
Missing
Milk
1% milk
1 meal needs attention
The Menu Builder combines powerful compliance checking with an intuitive interface that makes menu planning fast and accurate.
Key Features
- Real-time Validation: See compliance status as you build
- Component Tracking: Automatic oz equivalent calculations
- Age Group Support: Switch between age groups instantly
- Smart Search: Find products with built-in crediting info
- Export Options: Excel, PDF, and print formats
The Toolbar
At the top of the Menu Builder, you'll find controls for:
- Meal Type: Switch between breakfast, lunch, supper, or snack
- Age Group: View requirements for specific age groups
- Week Navigation: Move between weeks in multi-week menus
- Export: Download your menu in various formats
The Menu Grid
The main area shows your menu organized by day. Each day displays the meal components and their compliance status:
- Green: Component meets requirements
- Yellow/Orange: Component needs attention
- Red: Required component missing