Results and Successes from Boost the Roost

The initial goal of the Boost the Roost pilot project was to position USFA as a disruptor in the marketplace, changing the way schools purchase chicken products to encourage a more efficient, process-driven procurement approach, driving out non-value-added costs. The pilot successfully tested the systems and processes to leverage the collective buying power of School Nutrition Programs (SNP) and attracted the interest of the industry. Valuable feedback was provided by SNPs and the industry identifying challenges that must be addressed as USFA moves forward with procurement initiatives. 

BOOST THE ROOST TAUGHT US

1. Smaller, regional manufacturers are interested in participating in the school food supply chain but want more detailed information and time to discuss, identify, and resolve challenges before the procurement process is initiated.
2. There is an interest in focusing resources on food quality.
3. The option to utilize USDA Foods entitlement must be a consideration in school food procurement.
4. USFA cooperative procurement is a significant challenge for large urban school districts due to differing state and local policies. The smaller districts participating in the pilot joined in the cooperative procurement with ease.
5. There is a commitment by USFA members to continue to procure healthier food options including No Antibiotic Ever chicken, and the removal of certain unwanted ingredients. USFA will continue to advocate for healthier school food.
6. An electronic bid system was successfully tested and helped USFA develop a vision of the electronic bid template development that is included in the USDA Cooperative Agreement.
7. Change takes time. The potential to develop improved products will require enhanced communication, adequate planning and execution time, a clear path, and the buy-in of school districts, industry, and key players.

Knowledge gained through the pilot helped to identify procurement challenges and future opportunities for improvement that informed the goals of the USFA Cooperative Agreement with USDA “Procurement Practices in School Meals: Making Real Change Work for Healthier Meals.”

Read more on this topic in the full digital publication HERE.

Access FREE Boost The Roost downloadable resources on our website HERE.